Want to gain 87% better strength out of the same part? Check out the latest episode of Markforged Reinforced, where their engineers share valuable tips for designing for additive manufacturing.
Introduction: The Power of 3D Printing
3D printing is revolutionizing the world of manufacturing. From small gadgets to large machinery, it’s a tool that’s changing how we create things. But there’s a challenge that many modern manufacturers face: How do we make 3D printed parts strong enough for real-world use? That’s where multi-part printing comes in. In this blog post, we’ll explore this innovative technique, guided by a real-world example from Markforged. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into the world of reinforced 3D printing!
The Challenge of Strength: A Modern Manufacturer’s Dilemma
Strength is a vital factor in manufacturing. A part that’s not strong enough can fail, leading to wasted time, money, and effort. In 3D printing, the way a part is printed can affect its strength. Print it one way, and it’s strong in one direction but weak in another. Print it another way, and the situation reverses.
Imagine a mounting plate designed to secure a tent pole to the ground. If printed as a single part, it might fail under pressure. This is a real problem that modern manufacturers face, and it’s one that requires a creative solution.
Understanding the X, Y, and Z Plane Strength Characteristics
In the world of 3D printing, understanding the strength characteristics of the X, Y, and Z planes is crucial. It’s not just about creating a design; it’s about knowing how that design will behave in the real world. Let’s break down these planes:
1. X Plane (Left to Right):
- In the X plane, the strength is often determined by the layering of the material.
- Parts printed in this direction tend to have more strength within the layers.
- Ideal for loads applied from left to right.
2. Y Plane (Front to Back):
- Similar to the X plane, the Y plane also benefits from the layering of the material.
- Strength in this direction can be optimized by considering the orientation during printing.
- Suitable for loads applied from front to back.
3. Z Plane (Up and Down):
- The Z plane presents a unique challenge in 3D printing.
- The bonds between the layers in this direction are often weaker than within the layers.
- Printing a part vertically might increase strength in one area but weaken it in another.
In our mounting plate example, printing the part horizontally would make the bottom plate strong, but it might fail in the Z plane. Printing it vertically might strengthen the center boss but weaken it in bending about one of the axes parallel to the printed layers.
What Does This Mean for Modern Manufacturers? Understanding these planes is not just a technical exercise; it’s a practical tool for creating stronger, more reliable parts. By considering the X, Y, and Z planes in the design and printing process, manufacturers can optimize strength where it’s needed most.
Whether you’re securing a tent pole or building a complex machine, the principles remain the same. It’s about taking calculated risks, using technology wisely, and always striving for improvement. That’s the mindset of the modern manufacturer, and it’s what makes 3D printing such a powerful tool in today’s competitive landscape.
The Solution: Multi-Part Printing
Multi-part printing is a game-changer. By splitting a design into multiple parts and printing them separately, we can increase the strength of the final assembly. Here’s how it works, step by step:
1. Designing in CAD:
- Start by creating a sketch of the part in SolidWorks or similar software.
- Split the part into two or more co-parts, considering the orientation and load direction.
- Add features like chamfers to guide the parts together.
2. Printing and Assembly:
- Import the parts into slicing software like Eiger.
- Print the parts in their ideal orientations.
- Assemble using an Arbor Press or adhesives like Loctite 401 or Scotch-Weld DP 420.
3. Tips for Modern Manufacturers:
- Consider the material and load direction.
- Experiment with different orientations and assembly methods.
- Keep an engineering mindset, focusing on reliability and value.
Testing and Success: Proof in Action
The real test of any manufacturing technique is how it performs under pressure. In our example, three different parts were tested:
- A single unit, printed horizontally.
- A single unit, printed vertically.
- Two parts, printed in ideal orientations.
The results were astonishing! The multi-part assembly reached a maximum load of 5,747 Newtons, an 87% improvement over the next best single part. This is not just a theory; it’s a proven method that works.
Academic and Real-World Proof: Beyond the Example
The success of multi-part printing is backed by research and real-world applications. A study titled “Multiplanar continuous fiber reinforcement in additively manufactured parts via co-part assembly” provides in-depth insights into this technique. Other research papers also support the effectiveness of multi-part printing in various applications.
Conclusion: The Future is Here
Multi-part printing is more than a shiny new tool; it’s a practical solution to a real-world challenge. For modern manufacturers keen on innovation and improvement, it offers a pathway to stronger, more reliable parts.
Are you ready to embrace this technique? The future of manufacturing is here, and it’s waiting for you to explore, innovate, and succeed.