Optimization of 3D printing process parameters to maximize the mechanical properties of 3D printing products using Taguchi method

Abstract Three-dimensional (3D) printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has become increasingly popular in recent years for rapid prototyping. The quality of 3D-printed products is highly dependent on the configuration of printing parameters. In this study, we examined how various printing process parameters and the choice of filament materials affect the mechanical properties of 3D-printed components. The primary aim of the research was to identify the optimal combination of input parameters to enhance tensile strength and compressive strength. To achieve this, Taguchi’s design of experiments and ANOVA were utilized to optimize three independent parameters (infill density, nozzle temperature, and filament material type) across three levels. A total of 54 specimens were created in accordance with ASTM standard test samples for tensile and compressive strength tests. The findings indicate that the best tensile and compressive strengths were achieved with an infill density of 100%, a nozzle temperature of 230°C, and the use of ABS filament. However, tensile strength was predominantly affected by the filament material type, contributing 88.72%, while infill density had the greatest impact on compressive strength, contributing 77.28%.