A comparative study between 3-axis and 5-axis additively manufactured samples and their ability to resist compressive loading

One of the main limitations of parts made with Material Extrusion (ME) is their anisotropic mechanical behaviour. This behaviour limits the functionality of these components in multi-directional loading conditions. A critical factor for this mechanical behaviour is the poor bonding between layers. 5-axis ME has the capability to orientate the printed layers in order to limit the effect of poor inter-laminar bonding. Previous studies have investigated 5-axis ME, but not fully explored 5-axis capabilities of this manufacturing technique. To address this gap, this paper compares the mechanical behaviour of 3-axis and 5-axis ME samples when subjected to compressive loading. The results demonstrate how depositing material in “3D layers” can improve the consistency of a sample’s mechanical behaviour. This study indicates that 5-axis ME can enable more isotropic behaviour in printed samples

An investigation into utilising low-cost multi-axis additive manufacturing: a study on mechanical behaviour and viability

A work investigating the viability and validity of a multi-axis additive manufacturing processes and the potential mechanical benefits thereof

Porosity in multi-axis material extrusion of short-fibre composites

Purpose - This study aims to investigate the relationship between part porosity and mechanical properties of short-fibre reinforced PLA printed via Multi-Axis Material Extrusion (MAMEX) to establish guidelines for optimal process configurations.Design/methodology/approach - Material properties graphs provide the basis for studying the relationship between porosity and mechanical behaviour. Using the correlations found in this study, the way to improve printing strategies and filament properties can be deducted directly from an analysis of the print path and the final influence on mechanical performance. Findings – Some commercial brands of short-fibre reinforced filament present inherent porosity that weakens the mechanical behaviour of MAMEX components. Originality/value – Low-cost MAMEX allows the production of components that do not present anisotropic behaviour and are mechanically optimised through the alignment of the filaments along with internal stresses. This paper also addresses the effects of multi-axis deposition strategies on the resulting porosity and proposes improvements to reduce residual porosity, thus increasing the mechanical performance in the future