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:
Rapid Prototyping Mechanical Testing
Measurement of anisotropic compressive strength of rapid prototyping parts
Lee, C.S., Kim, S.G., Kim, H.J. & Ahn, S.H.,"Measurement of anisotropic compressive strength of rapid prototyping parts", Journal of Materials Processing Technology, 187-188, 627-630, 2007.
Abstract:
Rapid prototyping (RP) technologies provide the ability to fabricate initial prototypes from various model materials. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) and 3D printer are commercial RP processes while nano composite deposition system (NCDS) is an RP testbed system that uses nano composites materials as the part material. To predict the mechanical behavior of parts made by RP, measurement of the material properties of the RP material is important. Each process was characterizes by process parameters such as raster orientation, air gap, bead width, color, and model temperature for FDM. 3D printer and NCDS had different process parameters. Specimens to measure compressive strengths of the three RP processes were fabricated, and most of them showed anisotropic compressive properties.
Notes:
- Build direction and raster angle are important process parameters
- Build direction - orientation of parts as it is being made
- Raster angle - direction of deposited material in relation to part loading
- RP processes result in anisotropic parts
- FDM - filament material is heated to semi-molten state and deposited through a nozzle. The material fuses with the previously deposited layer.
- Tested compression of FDM parts by ASTM D695
- ABS build material
- Axial and transverse orientation with 45 degree raster angle
- Axial-built compressive strength was greater than transverse-built strength