Comparing Performance of 3D-Printed and Injection-Molded Fiber-Reinforced Composite Parts in Ring-Spinning Traveler Application

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced 3D printing (3DP) technology is a recent addition to the material extrusion-based 3DP process unlocking huge potential to apply this technology for high-performance material fabrication with complex geometries. However, in order to take the full advantage of this technology, a comparative analysis with existing technologies targeting a particular application is necessary to understand its commercial applicability. Here, an applied composite part, ring-spinning travelers, has been developed using the unique design features of fiber-reinforced 3DP technology that is beyond the capability of the currently used technology; the injection molding, quality, and performance of the printed and molded travelers were investigated and compared. The results demonstrated that fiber-reinforced 3DP is a promising technology that offers a lot of flexibility regarding reinforcement patterns and materials including both short and continuous fibers to tailor the performance, although the printed travelers showed poorer surface characteristics and wear resistance than the molded travelers. Based on the present analysis, a number of recommendations have been proposed on the design of the traveler to apply the technology effectively and use the printer to improvise and manipulate the performance of the travelers.

Comprehensive analysis of 3D printed PA6.6 and fiber‐reinforced variants: Revealing mechanical properties and adhesive wear behavior

“…37,38,40 In other studies examining the properties of 3D printed PA 6.6, the material type and name have been clearly stated. 41,42,[58][59][60] Like this study, in another study that utilized PA, carbon fiber-reinforced PA, and glass fiber-reinforced PA, the researcher compared their performance in flexural strength and DMA results and examined SEM images of the surfaces to relate the findings to morphology. However, in this particular study, despite the use of the same materials, no investigation was conducted regarding their tensile strength at different temperatures and wear behavior.…”