Experimental Dimensional Accuracy Analysis of Reformer Prototype Model Produced by FDM and SLA 3D Printing Technology

Abstract

The subject of this paper is the evaluation of the dimensional accuracy of FDM and SLA 3D printing technologies in comparison with developed reformer polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell CAD model. 3D printing technologies allow a bottom-up approach to manufacturing, by depositing material in layers to final shape. Dimensional inaccuracy is still a problem in 3D printing technologies due to material shrinking and residual stress. Materials used in this research are PLA (Polylactic Acid) for FDM technology and the standard white resin material for SLA technology. Both materials are commonly used for 3D printing. PLA material is printed in three different height resolutions: 0.3 mm, 0.2 mm and 0.1 mm. White resin is printed in 0.1 mm height resolution. The aim of this paper is to show how layer height affects the dimensional accuracy of FDM models and to compare the dimensional accuracy of FDM and SLA printed reformer models with the same height resolution.