The effects of two molding parameter optimization techniques, a manual technique and an automated (software-based) method, were compared with respect to the processing conditions, process stability and reproducibility of the molded parts, and the stress retained in those parts. The software-based process optimization resulted in molding conditions that led to more consistent part weights and dimensions than a manual technique. The parts from the former method, however, exhibited somewhat higher retained stress. This was attributed to the low injection velocities and the packing method recommended in the optimization process. The fully automated process optimization was sometimes limited by the software's selection of injection velocities and shot size increments that could not be achieved in practice.
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