Optimization of Injection Molding Parameters for Enhanced Mechanical Performance of Plastic Latch Mechanisms A Moldflow Simulation Study

Abstract: This study investigates the optimization of injection parameters (temperature, pressure, and flow rate) for improving the quality, safety, and environmental efficiency of plastic latching mechanisms using Moldflow Plastic Insight (MPI). A latching mechanism CAD model designed in Pro/ENGINEER was tested in 100 simulation scenarios. Results showed that higher injection temperatures significantly reduced fill time by 40%, while increased pressures extended freezing time by 15%. Flow rate had a strong influence on bulk temperature and molecular orientation. Optimal gate positioning minimized air traps and thermal hotspots. The integration of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) principles in process design demonstrates the potential to enhance product quality, worker safety, and reduce environmental footprint.Keywords: Plastic injection molding, Moldflow simulation, injection parameters, latching mechanism, thermal distribution, health and safety, environmental performance