Evaluation of tensile strength of 3D printed objects with FDM process on RepRap platform

Recently, low cost of the printing devices and broader availability of the stock materials makes fused deposition modeling (FDM) of 3D printing prevailing in the industries. FDM methodology is still facing many engineering challenges as a result of process induced parameters such as material composition, the appropriate temperature, raster angle, specimen size and others. In this study, tensile test specimens using polylactic acid (PLA) material were printed on a RepRap 3D printer. The tensile test conducted herein complies with ASTM-D638-02a standards. The number of perimeter, raster angle, and specimen size are studied to assess their effects on tensile strength of the specimen. The results show that the tensile strength of the specimen built with 45° is greater than those built with 0°. Smaller specimens have greater strength than their counterpart of full size specimens. Results also reveal that the specimen with the 3 layers of perimeter has the lowest tensile strength.