A post-processing laser polishing method to improve process performance of 3D printed new Industrial Nylon-6 polymer

Abstract

In this paper, the laser polishing method has been used to alleviate the asperities on the printed surface. The proposed laser polishing method is specifically used to solve industrial problems such as improving mechanical properties (flexural strength and tensile strength), surface roughness, and eco-friendly polishing of 3D-printed novel nylon-6 polymers. A series of experimentations were conducted using response surface methodology to see how changing the laser parameters affected the surface finish and the mechanical qualities of the test materials. Mechanical properties and scanning electron microscope-based surface analysis were compared with the pre-polishing workpiece. After multi-optimization, optimal laser scanning parameters resulted in a 20.2 % reduction in surface roughness, 8.27 % increment in flexural strength, and a 1.45 % increase in tensile strength. The optimum laser scanning time for samples was 0.23 min, and the energy consumption was 1.58E−05 kWh for one experiment. These findings prove that the relatively new post-processing laser polishing method improves the mechanical and surface properties of a 3D-printed nylon-6 polymer material. This new method is highly useful in the 3D printing industry to provide sustainable products.