The Effect of Thickness on the Weld-Line Strength of Injection-Molded Thermoplastic Composites

Weld lines are a major concern to designers since they result in poor mechanical properties. Designers may overdesign parts when considering anticipated failure modes and safety factors by locating weld lines in non-critical areas without taking into account material factors. This study focus on the effect of part thickness on the weld-line strength of injection-molded short-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites. Comparisons were made with specimens without weld lines. The use of design data which takes into account fiber orientation and part thickness will enable designers to more accurately predict the performance of an injection-molded thermoplastic composites under applied load.