Resistance Analysis of a Plastic Container Obtained with Additive Manufacturing Using Finite Elements

Traditional manufacturing processes yield plastic containers in large batches, even for minimal production runs, resulting in elevated production costs. Three-dimensional printing has emerged as a viable alternative for very low production volumes, offering properties comparable to traditional methods at significantly reduced costs. To assess the tensile strength, specimens printed with identical geometric parameters to the 3D-printed containers were tested according to ASTM D638 standards, enabling the determination of the stress–strain curve behavior. A compression test was conducted on containers obtained from both manufacturing processes to establish their respective resistance and deformation characteristics. The results revealed a 67% difference in resistance, indicating greater rigidity in the 3D-printed container, and a higher deformation in the blow-molded container, reaching up to 4 mm in height without fracture. Similarly, impact resistance was analyzed using finite element analysis with Ls-Dyna software, showing deformation differences of 0.91% and stress differences of 2.15%. Therefore, 3D printing presents itself as a compelling alternative for the fabrication of plastic containers in small production runs.