Influence of Printing Parameters on the Strength and Toughness of 3D-Printed Composites

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nandha Engineering College, Perundurai 638052, Tamil Nadu, India

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Published online: 26 September 2025

Abstract

Compression and injection molding are two of the most common conventional manufacturing processes used to make composite items. Composites have recently been made using additive manufacturing processes, which involve three-dimensional printing. The term “3D printing” refers to the technique of creating three-dimensional objects by strategically combining many layers of material. Inconsistent microstructures are caused by this layering effect in conjunction with ambient temperature and pressure. Anisotropic components with unpredictable mechanical properties are the result of oriented reinforcing fibers and microstructures that are not uniform. This article took a look at the mechanical characteristics of FRPC using 3D printing and more conventional methods like compression molding. Bending samples were made from glass-fiber-reinforced ABS using 3D printers: the Prusa i3 Mk3, the Tevo Tornado, and Flash Forge Dreamer. The mechanical behaviour of the composites exhibit notable inconsistencies and anisotropies, according to the results. To start, components manufactured by various printers have vastly diverse characteristics. Secondly, the orientations of the filaments have a significant impact on mechanical properties of 3D-printed components. Mechanical properties with Young's modulus, maximum strength, and toughness were best demonstrated by parts where the infill was orientated longitudinally relative to the specimens. The third issue is that compared to parts manufactured the traditional way, all 3D-printed ones are subpar. Finally, in an effort to “design” 3D printing procedures for optimal performance, theoretical modeling was employed to forecast the mechanical reactions of 3D-printed materials.