Multi-response optimization in injection molding process of PLA bone screw using Taguchi method and response surface methodology Available to Purchase

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is one of the biodegradables or bioabsorbable materials, PLA has high tensile strength, modulus, good biocompatibility, which makes it more suitable for load-bearing applications such as sutures, tissue culture, wound closure, and orthopedic fixation. This study aims to obtain the optimal process for the combination of factors for PLA material in injection molding experiments to produce the quality of bone screws in accordance with the bone screw product specifications. Experiments were carried out using the Taguchi method. There are 2 responses that are considered, namely shrinkage and density. Meanwhile, there are 4 factors with 3 levels that are considered. The experimental data are analyzed using response surface methodology to obtain a simultaneous optimization process. Based on experimental data analysis, the optimal setting level mainly the shot size is 6.998 mm, the melting temperature is 105^oC, the injection time is 3.5 s and the cooling time is 10.003 s. Simultaneous optimization for two responses mainly shrinkage is 0.445% and density is 1.229 gr/cm³.