Unlock the true potential of 3D printing with Project Path! At Advanced Additive, we’re committed to redefining the limits of additive manufacturing through cutting-edge optimization software. In our latest tests, conducted at the Material Research Laboratory of TH Rosenheim, we investigated how Advanced Additive’s algorithms can improve the mechanical properties of 3D-printed parts – apparently taking them closer than ever to injection-molding standards and outperforming manufacturer’s material specifications.
Methodology and Test Setup:
Our study was conducted in collaboration with the Material Research Laboratory at TH Rosenheim, using a carefully controlled testing setup to minimize external variables. A Voron Trident 250 3D printer with an E3D Revo 1.4mm nozzle was used alongside a glass print bed. For consistency, calibration was performed once, ensuring minimal geometric deviations during production. We compared the performance of parts sliced using Advanced Additive’s optimization algorithms to those sliced with a traditional slicer (Cura in this case).
Four distinct production setups were analyzed to evaluate the impact of different infill patterns on solid parts:
- Isolated lengthwise infill (I, 90°): Infill lines oriented along the length of the part.
- Isolated shortwise infill (-, 0°): Infill lines oriented across the width of the part.
- Alternating infill (+, 0°,90°): Alternating layers with infill lines at 90° angles.
- Alternating diagonal infill (X, 45°,135°): Alternating layers with diagonal infill patterns.
All tensile test specimens were manufactured individually in a fixed position to eliminate positional fluctuations. Testing was performed according to DIN EN ISO 3167 standards on a 10kN tensile testing machine with a Multi-X-tens extensometer.
Impressive results:
The results speak for themselves! Our software demonstrated:
- Increases in maximum force by 5-15% compared to conventional slicing methods.
- Increases in maximum breaking force by 3-11% for samples subjected to fracture.
- Achieved a maximum tensile stress of 56.6 MPa, surpassing the manufacturer’s specification and reaching within 4% of the literature values for injection-molded PLA.
The diagrams below show the standard force versus elongation:
Achieving tensile stress results close to injection-molding standards is a game-changer for additive manufacturing. The ability to produce parts with comparable mechanical properties opens new possibilities for industries relying on robust, high-quality components. From prototyping to end-use applications, Advanced Additive’s software could bridge the gap between 3D printing and injection molding, making 3D printing a viable alternative for more demanding use cases.
While the Advanced Additive setup occasionally introduced greater variability in forces compared to traditional methods, the overall consistency and performance improvements offset this challenge.
What’s next?
This is just the beginning! The success of this study motivates us to take our research further. In our next trials, we’ll conduct direct comparisons between 3D-printed parts optimized with Advanced Additive and components manufactured through injection molding. These experiments will validate the capability of our solution to compete with traditional production methods in strength, performance, and consistency.
With Project Path, we’re not just improving 3D printing – we’re revolutionizing it! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to bridge the gap between additive manufacturing and injection molding, demonstrating the unmatched potential of Advanced Additive’s technology. Together, let’s unlock the next generation of 3D printing!