Performance optimization of 3D printed polyamide 12 via Multi Jet Fusion: A Taguchi grey relational analysis (TGRA)

Abstract

The multi jet fusion (MJF) additive manufacturing techniques enable producing different complex geometries quickly with a relatively inexpensive product development process, using a thermoplastic powder, specifically polyamide 12 (PA 12). The multi jet fusion additive manufacturing technology aims to enhance the quality of parts quickly and inexpensively compared to existing 3D printing technologies. In comparison with other polymer printing processes, MJF shows a much faster printing process with exciting potential. However, less studies discussed which input parameters have a significant impact on the printed part. This presented contribution used to participate in solving this issue, and investigates the effect of the two different printing orientations under different strain rates. Specimens were printed using polyamide by ASTM 638 type IV. The design of experiment for this study used Taguchi L8 four-factor design, that consist of two different orientations and four strain rates. This study aims to determine the optimal parameters for printing according to the mechanical properties of the polyamide 12 material using grey relational analysis. The results showed that the optimal results appeared with a 10 mm/min strain rate, and the building orientation was 25°, as the Grey relational grade improved by 0.141% with optimized parameters.

Keywords

• Multi jet fusion (MJF)
• Additive manufacturing (AM)
• Optimization
• Polyamide 12 (PA 12)
• Mechanical properties
• Strain rate