Background
This review covers the available literature pertaining to mechanical testing of rapid prototyped components in support of the Mechanical testing of polymer components made with the RepRap 3-D printer project.
Overview of Rapid Prototyping
A Study of the State-of-the-Art Rapid Prototyping Technologies
C. K. Chua, S. M. Chou, and T. S. Wong, "A Study of the State-of-the-Art Rapid Prototyping Technologies",The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 14(2), 146-152, 1998.
Abstract:
Each rapid prototyping (RP) process has its special and unique advantages and disadvantages. The paper presents a state-of-the-art study of RP technologies and classifies broadly all the different types of rapid prototyping methods. Subsequently, the fundamental principles and technological limitations of different methods of RP are closely examined. A comparison of the present and ultimate performance of the rapid prototyping processes is made so as to highlight the possibility of future improvements for a new generation of RP systems.
Notes:
- Gives a general overview of current rapid prototyping techniques including droplet deposition (FDM)
- Droplet deposition (Table 4)
- -Advantages:
- Low Material Cost
- Very little material waste - limited to support material
- Low imaging specific energy
- Multiple materials or colors possible in same object or layer
- -Disadvantages:
- Poor surface finish and appearance
- Limited to material with low melting point
- -Advantages: