Determining the optimal parameters of bonding polyvinylchloride to stainless steel in automotive applications with the use of full factorial design of experiment

Abstract

This study investigated the optimal parameters for bonding polyvinylchloride (PVC) to stainless steel in automotive applications using full factorial design of experiment (DOE). The bonding of glass to stainless steel is a common process in the automotive industry for outside window trims. Recently, several high-end vehicle models have incorporated the bonding of PVC to stainless steel to create a more customized vehicle appearance. A case study is provided that describes a DOE methodology that was applied to reduce the use of full factorial design to investigate the conditions that lead to bond failure. The results of the DOE study indicated that ambient temperature, humidity, the primer application process, and the application of a pre-treating heat process positively impact bond quality. The results of this study will improve the bonding process, the bond quality, and reduce quality failure costs for automotive glass supply companies.