Additive Manufacturing 3D Printing Paste Extrusion Pancake Mix Slurry Printing DIW Direct Ink Writing
Abstract:
The Direct Ink Writing (DIW) of materials gives rise to broad applications in medical,
robotic, and electronic fields. Current DIW technologies can print various geometries; however,
they fall short in reaching the precision necessary for fine details. This project focuses on
modifying these current DIW technologies to fit the needs of processing paste-like materials,
through redesigning the print head and reconfiguring the feeder assembly. The first step of this
process was to create the material feeder and extruder system. This step was necessary to determine
the flow that would come out of the extruder. Next, a CAD model was constructed of the entire
assembly for demonstration and reference. Once the decision was made to use an already existing
gantry system, a base printer was selected based on key parameters such as: print speed, build area,
modifiability, and reputation. The next steps were to attach an updated system onto the gantry
system and to pair this system with the code of the printer. Many of these modifications focused
on controlling the flow through the printer nozzle and pairing the feeder assembly to the gantry
system. Finally, a printability study was conducted using pancake mixture-based slurry to
determine the effect of print parameters on the final printed product. This technique is
generalizable for many paste-like materials to increase its range of applications.
