Investigation on the influence of fused deposition modelling parameters on the mechanical properties of carbon fibre/nylon composites

Abstract

This article examines the effects on mechanical properties of carbon fibre reinforced with nylon produced using fused deposition modelling technology. Experimental analysis was carried out by varying fused deposition modelling parameters namely the bed temperature, nozzle temperature and outer thickness to determine their impact on mechanical properties. To investigate the effects of these parameters’ tests were carried using design of experiments and mathematical equations were developed. In order to ensure the accuracy of the mathematical equations, analysis of variance (ANOVA) method is employed. Utilising scanning electron microscopy, the microstructure behind the fractured specimens was investigated. Carbon fibre nylon composites have established tensile strengths between 22.75 and 32.65 N/mm2, flexural strengths between 20.12 and 25.89 N/mm2 and impact strengths between 0.37 and 0.71 kJ/m2. The fractured composites are characterised by infill gap, pullout, pores, cavities, smearing, accumulate, debonding of layers, delamination, infill particles, cracks, clusters and breakage. This material can find its application in industries like aerospace, automotive and other engineering applications. Also, this study acts as a database for other researchers carrying their work in this area.