Enhancing the functionality of sugar palm (Arenga Pinnata) fibre reinforced polylactic acid composite filament of fused deposition modelling through Taguchi method

Abstract

Constructing functional components using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is challenging due to various processing factors that influence the quality of the final product. The main reason for this is the many processing parameters involved, which have the ability to impact the quality of the produced components. The aim of this research is to use the Taguchi technique in attempt to improve the printing variables for attaining the best possible mechanical and physical qualities in the three-dimensional (3D) printed product made from sugar palm fibre reinforced polylactic acid (SPF/PLA). The layer thickness, infill density, and printing speed are characteristics that directly affect the mechanical qualities, surface roughness, and dimensional accuracy of FDM products. The research applied Taguchi’s L9 array, consisting of 9 experimental trials, with each trial including 5 duplicated specimens. Thus, a total of 45 specimens were generated by altering various processing settings. The most effective printing settings for FDM using SPF and PLA were found to be a layer thickness of 0.1 mm, infill density set to 100%, and a printing speed of 25 mm s−1. The microscopic images reveal a significant rise in the number of voids as the layer thickness is raised. Additionally, the printing speed has a substantial impact on the nead structure, making it more resilient. Overall, the results will provide a significant collection of data in the area of 3D printing, improving the utilization of indigenous plant fibres in additive manufacturing technology.