Quality and performance evaluation of TPU based Fused Deposition Modeling : Investigations on dimenison, surface topography and mechanical properties.

Abstract: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a complex process that exhibits muchdifficulty in determining optimal parameters due to the presence of a large numberof conflicting parameters that will influence the part quality and materialproperties. The technology has the capability to fulfill the industrial requirementby customization of consumer-based product. Hence, it is of utmost importance toproduce the part with the best possible quality which can be achieved throughoptimal selection of process parameters.In this project, investigations on the quality of 3D printed Thermoplasticpolyurethane (TPU) samples by FDM process with different print settings areperformed. The quality and performance tests includes dimensional accuracy,surface topography and mechanical properties with different test artefacts.Dimensions of the printed sample are compared with the CAD model to determinethe accuracy of the print. Further the samples are post processed by plastic mediablasting and comparisons are drawn between the surface topography of as-printedand post-processed study samples. Tests are conducted on Tear strength, Tensilestrength, fogging and flammability to determine the mechanical properties of 3Dprinted TPU samples.The results suggest that the variation in dimensions is higher in Z direction or inthe direction of the stacking layers. The surface analysis suggests higher surfaceroughness on as-printed samples compared to post-processed samples. Postprocessing is found to have induced matte finish on the test samples. The tests onthe mechanical properties suggest good tensile and tear resistance.