Mechanical Optimization of 3D Printed CF + PLA Components
Open Access
- Author:
- Lengwin, Dominic
- Area of Honors:
- Mechanical Engineering (Behrend)
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- Mark Rubeo, Thesis Supervisor
Charlotte Marr De Vries, Thesis Honors Advisor - Keywords:
- 3D Printing
Additive Manufacturing
Fused Deposition Modeling
Carbon Fiber
PLA - Abstract:
- As 3D printing technology rapidly evolves, its capability to create intricate parts with minimal waste has become pivotal in today's industrial landscape. The significance of this capability diminishes when the strength of 3D printed parts is insufficient for functional application. While 3D printers are sometimes employed for non-load bearing, hobbyist components, there remains a high demand for functional, high-strength parts in a diverse range of industries. This paper explores the mechanical properties of a composite filament made of chopped carbon fiber (CF) and polylactic acid (PLA), otherwise known as CF + PLA, using tension testing. Through a systematic adjustment of various parameters in the printing process, CF + PLA is optimized to augment the strength of 3D-printed parts. The tension testing revealed that print speeds between 1.757 and 2.362 in/s have no significant impact on yield or ultimate tensile strength. However, there is a noticeable difference in elasticity, with speeds at the extremes of this tested range exhibiting higher stiffness. Printing at 401°F provides the highest strength and stiffness. Using the cubic infill pattern yields the highest strengths but the lowest stiffness of the tested infill patterns. A layer height of 0.00787 inches offers the highest strength, while a finer height of 0.00472 inches provides the highest stiffness. Printing multiple parts simultaneously does not significantly affect strength but introduces up to 21,543 psi of variation in stiffness.