Experimental investigation on Stereolithography process parameter optimization and its influence on smooth surface finish for ABS Accura-60 material

Abstract

Rapid Prototyping Technique (RPT) is a method that involves directly translating CAD models into physical parts, making it easier to produce prototypes. These 3D prototype printers have found applications in various fields, where there's a demand for prototypes with higher strength, smoother surface finishes, and overall quality. One of the newer techniques, SLA (Stereolithography), has significantly impacted part manufacturing, as well as research and development processes. To meet the growing demands for improved surface properties, especially in polymers and plastics, standardized specimen profiles like ASTM D638 Type I are utilized for surface finishing testing. This study is focused on optimizing SLA parameters specifically for Accura-60 prototypes, with a particular emphasis on enhancing surface finish for ASTM D638 Type I specimens. The experiments conducted in this research delve into variations in parameters such as hatch angle, layer thickness, and hatch spacing to better understand their impact on surface properties. The ultimate goal is to effectively control and optimize SLA parameters to enhance surface finish, thereby improving the overall quality of the prototypes.