Effect of Process Parameters on Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed Continuous Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites

Abstract

3D printing technology has been receiving increased attention as a new molding method for carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTPs). This study investigates the effect of process parameters on the mechanical properties of 3D printed CFRTPs with in situ resin impregnated fiber yarn. The CFRTP specimen was manufactured through fused deposition molding using carbon fiber yarn consisting of 3000 carbon fiber monofilaments and poly(lactic acid) filaments. The mechanical properties of the CFRTP specimen were evaluated through tensile testing. A mathematical model was developed to describe the relationship between the process parameters and the tensile strength and modulus of the specimen. Based on the results, the high molding temperature print speed of about 100 mm/min and low filament extrusion speed were established as the optimum process parameters for the actual manufacturing of the CFRTPs.