Selection of process parameters for optimizing the weld strength in laser transmission welding of acrylics

In this paper, an experimental investigation into laser transmission welding of acrylics is carried out. The Taguchi method of parameter design is used as a statistical design of experiment technique to set the optimal process parameters. Experiments are designed and conducted by using Taguchi's L16 orthogonal array. Maximization of weld strength is selected as the quality target. The signal-to-noise ratio and the analysis of variance are used to find the optimum levels within the window of parameters selected and to identify the order of importance of the process parameters. With the frame of this work the effects of process parameters on weld strength is also discussed. Finally, a confirmation test is conducted, which verifies that optimal laser transmission welding parameters can be determined effectively so as to improve weld strength through the Taguchi method.