Influence Of Thermal Gradient On Mechanical Properties In Fused Deposition Modelling (Fdm) Additive Manufacturing

Author

Cori K. Yancy, Prairie View A&M University

Date of Award

12-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Degree Discipline

Engineering

Abstract

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a technique that constructs functional parts by extruding thermoplastic filaments layer by layer. The interplay between thermal dynamics and their subsequent effects on mechanical properties remains a field necessitating further exploration. This study introduced ongoing research focused on unraveling the connection between the thermal gradients in the FDM printing process and the resulting mechanical attributes. The primary objective was to increase quality and functionality of 3D printed components. In pursuit of this objective, a series of carefully planned experiments were devised to systematically vary FDM parameters, including print speed, layer thickness, and nozzle temperature. Through parameter manipulation, a spectrum of thermal gradients during the printing procedure we created. To assess the mechanical properties, a commercial FDM 3D printer was used to fabricate tensile specimens conforming to the ASTM D638 standard, a test method for quantifying the tensile properties of plastics. To capture the thermal gradient occurring during printing process, a high-resolution FLIR thermal camera was positioned closely to observe the area where freshly molten material was deposited to obtain temperature measurements. After the sample was printed, it was mechanically tested using Instron 5582 for tensile testing following the ASTM D638 standard, entailing the application of a uniaxial load until the specimen reached the point of fracture. Mechanical properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation at break, which offered fundamental insights into the material's strength, ductility, and performance under tensile stress. The experimental results obtained through these tests were analyzed to unveil potential correlations between the thermal gradient and mechanical properties. Undersatnding the interrelationship, gained a deeper understanding of the underlying thermal relationship in the FDM 3D printing process and their impact on the mechanical behavior of printed objects. The findings derived from this research contributed to comprehension of thermal effects in FDM 3D printing and their ramifications for mechanical performance. These insights hold promise for optimizing the printing process, therefore elevating the quality and functionality of 3D-printed components. Industries reliant on FDM technology, including aerospace, automotive, and medical sectors, stand to gain from improved process control, ultimately enhancing part reliability and performance.

Index Terms – 3D printing, astm d638 standard, correlation analysis, fused deposition modeling (fdm), mechanical properties, parameter manipulation, performance under tensile stress, thermal dynamics, thermal gradients, yield strength

Committee Chair/Advisor

Jeajong Park

Committee Member

Rambod Raygean

Committee Member

Lai Jiang

Publisher

Prairie View A&M University

Rights

Date of Digitization

1-09-2024

Contributing Institution

John B Coleman Library

City of Publication

Prairie View

MIME Type

Application/PDF

Recommended Citation

Yancy, C. K. (2023). Influence Of Thermal Gradient On Mechanical Properties In Fused Deposition Modelling (Fdm) Additive Manufacturing. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.pvamu.edu/pvamu-theses/1527