Volume: 4, 2025
4th International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: T006
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL4.T006
Published online: 9 April 2025
ICDSUPL, 4, T006 (2025)
Optimization of 3D printing parameters for PLA and their impact on mechanical strength
Adrian Stelmachowicz1*, Jacek Mazur1
1 Department of Food Engineering and Machines, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Głęboka 28, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
* Corresponding author: adrian.stelmachowicz@up.lublin.pl
Abstract
The selection of optimal parameters, including temperature, speed, and layer height, during the 3D printing process of poly (lactic acid) utilising Fused Deposition Modeling technology, has been demonstrated to exert a substantial influence on the strength properties of the resultant components. A comprehensive review of the extant literature suggests that temperature is the most significant parameter. At elevated temperatures, the bonds between successive paths of the extruded material are stronger than at lower temperatures. The second significant parameter is the printing speed. It has been demonstrated that this results in better forming of the extruded material and higher detail accuracy. Furthermore, publications have identified the parameter of orientation and direction of layer build-up as being instrumental in the strength of samples, with samples exhibiting layers aligned along the action of tearing forces demonstrating enhanced strength. The authors of the works base the strength of the material and the shape of the control specimen on the assumptions of the ISO 527 standard. However, a methodological inconsistency is often observed in these works, with some studies assuming complete filling of the specimens, while others specify a specific percentage of filling. Furthermore, the cited publications do not measure the specimens with the requisite accuracy in accordance with ISO 2768 dimensional standards, and a common practice is to rely on subjective evaluations that employ the visual method of manufacturing accuracy. The analysis of the study suggests a better understanding of the available ISO standards and more precise testing methodology, which can have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of 3D prints. It is further recommended that full-fill specimens be created, as the comparison of partial-fill specimens with those produced by methods such as pressure injection molding is not feasible.
Keywords: 3D printing, PLA, mechanical strength
How to cite
A. Stelmachowicz, J. Mazur, 2025. Optimization of 3D printing parameters for PLA and their impact on mechanical strength. In: 4th International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL4.T006