Optimization of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) Process Parameters Using Bacterial Foraging Technique

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a fast growing rapid prototyping (RP) technology due to its ability to build functional parts having complex geometrical shapes in reasonable build time. The dimensional accuracy, surface roughness, mechanical strength and above all functionality of built parts are dependent on many process variables and their settings. In this study, five important process parameters such as layer thickness, orientation, raster angle, raster width and air gap have been considered to study their effects on three responses viz., tensile, flexural and impact strength of test specimen. Experiments have been conducted using central composite design (CCD) and empirical models relating each response and process parameters have been developed. The models are validated using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Finally, bacterial foraging technique is used to suggest theoretical combination of parameter settings to achieve good strength simultaneously for all responses.

Optimization of fused deposition modeling process parameters using a fuzzy inference system coupled with Taguchi philosophy

Fused deposition modeling （FDM） is an additive manufacturing technique used to fabricate intricate parts in 3D, within the shortest possible time without using tools, dies, fixtures, or human intervention. This article empiri- cally reports the effects of the process parameters, i.e., the layer thickness, raster angle, raster width, air gap, part orientation, and their interactions on the accuracy of the length, width, and thicknes, of acrylonitrile-butadiene- styrene （ABSP 400） parts fabricated using the FDM tech- nique. It was found that contraction prevailed along the directions of the length and width, whereas the thickness increased from the desired value of the fabricated part. Optimum parameter settings to minimize the responses, such as the change in length, width, and thickness of the test specimen, have been determined using Taguchi＇s parameter design. Because Taguchi＇s philosophy fails to obtain uniform optimal factor settings for each response, in this study, a fuzzy inference system combined with the Taguchi philosophy has been adopted to generate a single response from three responses, to reach the specific target values with the overall optimum factor level settings. Further, Taguchi and artificial neural network predictive models are also presented in this study for an accuracy evaluation within the dimensions of the FDM fabricated parts, subjected to various operating conditions. The pre- dicted values obtained from both models are in good agreement with the values from the experiment data, with mean absolute percentage errors of 3.16 and 0.15, respectively. Finally, the confirmatory test results showed an improvement in the multi-response performance index of 0.454 when using the optimal FDM parameters over the initial values.

Performance analysis of a thick copper-electroplated FDM ABS plastic rapid tool EDM electrode

The importance of rapid tooling (RT) and additive manufacturing (AM) appears to be indispensable for boosting the process of manufacturing and expanding the horizon of production technology worldwide. This concept draws the attention of numerous scholars to arrive at a conclusive theory for the widespread utilization of RT. This study attempts to determine the viability and performance of an RT electrode in the field of electro discharge machining (EDM). The electrode prototype is made using an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic by fused deposition modeling (FDM), an AM technique, electroplated with copper of desired thickness, and used in die sinking EDM of D2 steel. The scanning electron microscope analysis of the electroplated samples confirms that it is possible to obtain the desired thickness of the metal by electroplating on any electrically conductive surfaces. In the present work, an experimental study is performed for examining the electroplated copper thickness of the plastic EDM electrode and its performances. It is found that the electroplated ABS plastic EDM RT electrode successfully performs the machining operation of D2 steel, and the results are comparable with a solid electrode. The study reveals that the RT electrode can be regarded as a viable tool for rough cutting or semi-finishing cut EDM functions. The experimental results are thoroughly discussed, examined, analyzed, and evaluated for the purpose of developing the appropriate form of the concept.