Studies on optimization of 3D-printed elements applied in Silesian Greenpower vehicle

Abstract

The paper presents the process of optimization of 3D printing method used to fabricate elements for Silesian Greenpower electric racing vehicle. The bolide has been developed by students of the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, Poland as an interfaculty students’ project. The main purpose of the work was to optimize 3D printing process parameters, such as printing temperature, layer height,and cooling rate, for further body part’s manufacturing for Silesian Greenpower electric vehicle. To achieve that, static tensile tests were carried out in order to analyze data collected from the sensors. Samples used for the tests were made out of polylactide (PLA). Influence of following parameters of 3D printing process has been inspected: printing temperature, layer height and cooling rate. 56 specimens have been fabricated in order to compare the influence of each of the parameters on the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the specimens and hence – parts made for SG electric car. Tests were carried out in compliance with EN ISO 572-2:2012 norm. Results of the tensile test research have been analyzed and discussed and conclusions have been presented in the following article.