Process parameter optimisation and characterisation of fused deposition modelling-polylactic acid (FDM-PLA) parts

Abstract

Fused deposition modelling stands as a prominent method within the realm of three-dimensional printing for crafting sturdy parts. This process builds solid components through the successive deposition of molten polymer layers extruded from a nozzle. This paper investigates the effect of process parameters such as infill angle and orientation angle on surface roughness and tensile strength. The full factorial design of experiment has been considered for experimentation. Studies show that the orientation angle should be kept as low as possible for a better surface finish, whereas the infill angle has a less significant effect on surface roughness (within the experimental domain). It has also been noted that to get a better tensile strength one has to print the sample with a low infill angle and with a low orientation angle.