In recent years, 3D printing has become a popular alternative to conventional manufacturing techniques. However, additional research on 3D printing technology is still required in order to produce accurate results. This research focuses on verifying relationships between printing parameters and thermal strain accumulated in 3D printed polylactic acid (PLA). Moreover, results were fit to an algorithm for predicting irreversible thermal strain. While experimental data trends mostly agreed with theory, there were certain cases that showed deviation. Such deviations required alteration of the algorithm. This research provides crucial initial steps for future research in developing an accurate method for predicting strain in Material Extrusion (MatEx) printed PLA parts.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Dolma, Tsering
• Kauffman, Jesse
• Kelly, Andrew M
• Perkins, Emily M

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-032318-113117

Advisor

• Peterson, Amy M.

Year

• 2018

Date created

• 2018-03-23

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright