Additive manufacturing (AM) offers several advantages over conventional methods, since they can generate long -lasting parts from an outer shell and a minimal inner material, which reduces both the weight of the part and the required amount of the material.
Now a team of researchers at Maine University is working on a new approach to improve the reliability of light 3D printed components. The efforts are research engineer Philip Bean, Professor Senthil VEL, professor of mechanical engineering and professor of civil engineering, Roberto Lopez-Anido.
By developing a method for better prediction of the strength of these parts, the team engineers and designers should give more control over the material performance during the design process. The project is located in the Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) of the university, which is known for its work in progressive materials and production.
How stress has a slight 3D printed parts
The study combines advanced computer modeling with practical physical tests to convey a more precise and more detailed understanding of how easy 3D printed parts do under different stress conditions.
The research team focused on the Gyroid infill -a complex internal pattern that is often used in 3D printing to reduce weight and at the same time maintain strength and stability. The pattern is also evaluated for its ability to distribute tension evenly in a structure.
In order to better understand how the Gyroid infill develops under different charging conditions, the team carried out detailed computer simulations in order to predict its mechanical reaction. The researchers then printed physical prototypes and subjected them to real stress tests, successfully validated their simulations and received a deeper insight into the structural behavior of the infill.
“The semi-empirical equations are suitable for the use of design decisions or for implementation within an optimization routine. Finally, compression and shear tests are carried out to verify the FEA (finite element analysis) that predict the strength of AS-stated data.
Gyroid infill improves performance and material efficiency
In contrast to conventional analytical methods, which often have difficulty taking into account the behavior of complex internal geometries, the researchers' approach offers new insights into the way Gyroid infill contributes to the general strength and performance of some. This deeper understanding enables engineers to make more well -founded design decisions, especially if they balance the material efficiency with structural integrity.
Bean, one of the leading researchers of the study, explains that this work enables engineers to design 3D printed parts with greater trust and efficiency. By precisely understanding the strength of structures that are infilled with gyroid, designers can reduce material use and at the same time improve performance in various industries.
In addition, the breakthrough is expected to offer industries significant advantages that require strong, light materials such as aerospace, automotive and medical equipment. By improving the accuracy of strength predictions, it helps to optimize designs for better performance and material efficiency.
The study was published in the journal Additive production progress.