Investigating The Effect of Infill Density and Pattern on Properties of 3D Prints

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is buildup process which involves making three dimensional (3D) models in space from virtual Computer aided design (CAD) models by the help of 3D printer and software. Fused Deposition modelling (FDM) is a popular technology that is used for rapid prototyping for different materials, most popularly thermoplastics. In FDM, filling patterns, a parameter of path planning focused on deposition quality & fabrication and build time. Multiple patterns such as rectilinear, rectangular, triangular and honeycomb, etc. are developed for both filling categories. In this work, multiple infill designs and densities are chosen in order to optimize strength to weight ratio, material usage and build time for parts. The used material and required built time for printing is noted from the slicing software used during 3D printing process. The tensile testing is performed on the printed specimens to calculate the strength to weight ratio. The values of yield stress for strength to weight ratio are measured from tensile test. By comparing the obtained results, a printing strategy with optimized solution based on maximum strength to weight ratio, minimum material utilization and production time is recommended for FDM technology