Comparative Analysis of Build Direction in Stereolithography-Printed Parts Based on Optical, Quasi-Static, Fracture, and Dynamic Experiments
摘要
Build direction is one of the crucial parameters in the SLA process to achieve better mechanical properties. The selection of build direction is preferred over build orientation as it reduces support structures, increases production efficiency in the batch-wise process, and avoids inconsistent results due to geometric inaccuracy at some orientations. Existing research mainly focuses on build orientation, which shows the least influence on quasi-static mechanical properties. Further, there is a need to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of the SLA printed part, as it is exposed to complex loads in real-time, significantly impacting component integrity and stability. To address these issues, this work explores the effect of build direction (upright, on-edge, and flat) based on FTIR, optical transmittance, quasi-static (tensile, compression, and flexural), fracture tests (plane strain, mode I, and mode II), and dynamic tests (creep, Charpy and low-velocity impact, and dynamic mechanical analyzer). The results show lesser anisotropy in the mechanical behavior of about 12% under quasi-static, mode-I and mode-II fracture loading. However, higher anisotropy was observed for plane strain (15%), creep (59%), Charpy impact strength (14%), perforation energy in the drop test (30%), and DMA test (18%). In addition, the influence of build direction on industrial components such as side-release buckles, curved panels, and cylindrical tubes was also examined. Finally, analysis of variance also reveals statistically significant differences between the build directions for the plane strain fracture, dynamic experiments and industrial components. This study will guide the SLA printing industry in selecting the build direction, as it significantly impacts the component during service.