Investigating the Flexural Properties of 3D-Printed Nylon CF12 with Respect to the Correlation Between Loading and Layering Directions

The article deals with the investigation of the flexural properties of 3D-printed Nylon CF12 with regard to the correlation between the loading and layering directions. It also discusses the prospective consideration of a suitable combination of lightweight material, 3D-printing, and cellular structures for application in sports, such as the production of poles for pole vaulting. Full-volume samples (with and without orbital shell) and porous (Diamond, Primitive, and Gyroid) samples sizes of 20 × 20 × 250 mm were fabricated and subjected to experimental three-point bending tests. The force-displacement dependencies were plotted, and the data were further evaluated. The results showed that the flexural properties of 3D-printed full-volume beams are significantly influenced by the direction of loading relative to the layering, while for porous beams with cellular structures, the differences in properties are very small. Also, the mismatches between the material properties listed in the datasheets and achieved within the research were identified and indicate the necessity to verify mechanical properties of newly developed products experimentally.