Scientific molding in the plastic injection process to control process variables and reduce aesthetic and dimensional problems of molded parts in a maquiladora company in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyze the scientific molding process in a maquiladora located in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, specifically to reduce aesthetic and dimensional defects in parts produced using this plastic molding technology. The research, developed using an applied research methodology, was conducted in a single maquiladora plant, in the molding area of the automotive parts production department. The main technique used was observation and process analysis based on customer requirements. According to the study, the current processes present opportunities for improvement, as the scrap rates due to aesthetic and dimensional problems are above the organization's target. Within the company, the quality department keeps a monthly record of the number of defects and their causes, with this data a historical record is obtained to demonstrate that most are originated by variations in the injection molding process, due to one or more of the variables present in it, such as temperature, speed, lack of mold seal, etc. A proposal and analysis of the technical characteristics of the scientific model are presented as an alternative for implementation in the improvement of automotive manufacturing processes.