Optimising performance of low-voltage cables’ process with three quality responses using fuzzy goal programming

Abstract

This research uses fuzzy goal programming (FGP) to optimise process performance for low-voltage cables of three quality responses, including thickness, resistance, and elongation. Three controllable process factors are investigated, involving machine velocity, temperature, and input diameter. A FGP model is developed and then solved to obtain the optimal values of factor settings. Confirmation experiments are finally conducted at optimal settings. Results showed that the values of individual capability indices for thickness, resistance, and elongation are increased from 0.240, 0.868, and 0.550 to 1.346, 4.106, and 1.878, respectively. Furthermore, the value of the total capability index with the three responses is concurrently improved from 0.197 to 1.249. Surely, such improvement will save huge amounts of productivity losses and quality costs. In conclusion, the FGP model effectively improved process performance for low-voltage cables while considering engineers’ preferences on quality responses and process factor settings.

Keywords:

• cable industry
• FGP
• optimisation
• process capability