On the Post-Processing of 3D-Printed ABS Parts

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Additive Manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing, is increasingly used for prototypes and end-use products.
• Investigating the structural and mechanical properties of AM components is crucial for new applications.
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a common material for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of a post-processing surface treatment on the mechanical properties of 3D-printed ABS specimens.
• To evaluate the effects of surface modification on tensile strength, fracture load, and fracture toughness.
• To provide insights for optimizing finishing processes in additive manufacturing.

Main Methods:

• ABS test coupons were produced using the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process.
• A custom device was used to treat the surface of 3D-printed ABS specimens, aiming for smoother surfaces.
• Treated and untreated specimens underwent tensile testing, three-point bending tests, and water absorption tests. A 3D laser microscope was used for visual inspection.

Main Results:

• Surface treatment decreased the fracture load of dog-bone specimens from 2026.1 N to 1951.7 N.
• Tensile strength reduced from 29.37 MPa in untreated specimens to 26.25 MPa after surface treatment.
• Surface modification affected the fracture toughness of semi-circular bending components, as confirmed by comparative analysis.

Conclusions:

• Post-processing surface treatment of FDM-printed ABS parts can lead to a reduction in mechanical properties such as fracture load and tensile strength.
• The study demonstrates that surface modification impacts the mechanical performance and fracture toughness of 3D-printed components.
• Findings offer valuable data for future designs and the optimization of post-processing techniques in additive manufacturing.