Life Prediction of Creep Rupture of a Plastic Scanner Hinge Using Finite Element Analysis

To ensure the durability of plastic parts in laser-printer scanner against creep rupture, an accelerated life test is performed at a higher temperature (80 degrees C) than the normal temperature (30 degrees C). This study develops a life prediction method of a scanner hinge housing made from polyoxymethylene (POM) against creep rupture using finite element analysis (FEA). To predict the creep rupture life of the scanner hinge housing at 80 degrees C, the power-law model for creep deformation and the accumulated creep damage for creep rupture are introduced. The estimated creep life at 80 degrees C from the FEA result is compared with the ALT result of scanner hinge housing at 80 degrees C. The creep life at 30 degrees C is estimated with the Larson-Miller parameter derived from the Arrhenius relationship of POM. The Arrhenius relationship of POM is acquired from the degradation characteristic of tensile strength through thermal aging.