Print Quality Optimization of an Open-Source High-Temperature FDM 3D Printer for Thermoplastic Materials

This paper discusses the optimization of a high-temperature FDM 3D printer tailored specifically for printing polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyetherimide (ULTEM/PEI) materials to be released open-source to the public. These materials hold immense promise for applications in medical implants and aerospace systems. However, existing printers designed for processing these materials are cost-prohibitive costs, limiting their use in academia. The printer outlined in this paper is designed to expand the ability for cost-effective research on the materials. The printer employs readily available materials and open-source software to increase access to these materials within academia. This paper will discuss and analyze optimizing the print quality of high-temperature polymers. This paper will further discuss the changes to the mechanical and thermal systems to optimize print quality along with analyzing the effects of differing print parameters on print quality. Based on these results, this paper aims to further optimize this open-source printer design for high-temperature polymers to further the knowledge base within academia.