Studies regarding the use of a neuro-fuzzy mathematical model in order to determine the technological parameters of the polyethylene pipes butt welding process

¹ Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Faculty of Engineering, 4 E. Cioran St, 55025, Sibiu, Romania
² E-on Gaz, 83 Stadionului st., 551105, Medias, Romania
³ Romgaz, 4, P-ta C.I. Motas, 551130, Medias, Romania

^* Corresponding author: alina.gligor@ulbsibiu.ro

Abstract

The paper analyzes the possibility to use a neuro-fuzzy type mathematical model, with the final goal of establishing the welding parameters for new types and dimensions of pipes and fittings. Anticipating the developing dynamic of polyethylene-made elements, especially pipes and fittings, starting from the current situation when already a wide range of pipes and fittings with different wall thicknesses and nominal working pressures is produced and commercialized, and taking into account also new development, it was considered necessary to find out the welding parameters for any new pipe type and dimension. The usage of existing welding equipment for new pipe dimensions is impossible without a preliminary set of welding parameters: pressure, temperature, time. Based on experimentally validated data for discreet values of the characteristic welding parameters, there was generated, using mathematical laws and functions, a new model that can estimate the necessary values of the welding parameters for any value within their variation range. As a result, the mathematical model created using neuro-fuzzy techniques allows the obtaining of the correct value for certain parameters (e.g. required welding pressure) for any values of the input variables pipe diameter and pipe thickness.