Session: 03-02-01: Advanced Manufacturing

Paper Number: 152273

152273 - Effects of Fused Deposition Modeling Process Parameters on Stainless Steel Mechanical Properties 

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a widely adopted additive manufacturing technology due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to produce complex geometries without molds or material waste. This study explores the FDM process of 17-4 PH stainless steel with a focus on optimizing processing parameters to enhance the mechanical properties of the fabricated parts. Specifically, this study aims to improve the printability and processability of 17-4 PH stainless steel by investigating the effects of nozzle diameter, layer thickness, and infill density on the structure and mechanical performance of specimens produced through material extrusion.

The experimental methodology includes triplicated tests to ensure reproducibility and consistency. Green parts, produced from metal-polymer composite filaments, undergo thermal debinding and sintering processes consecutively to transform them into fully metallic components. The thermal debinding process removes the polymer binder, while the post-debinding sintering is performed under vacuum conditions to improve the quality and mechanical properties of the metal parts. This comprehensive analysis evaluates how printing parameters affect the properties of the 17-4 PH stainless steel specimens.

By leveraging the combination of FDM and Metal Injection Molding (MIM) techniques, the study offers insights into improving the mechanical performance of the produced metal components. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on additive manufacturing technologies, especially for the fabrication of high-performance metal parts suitable for aerospace and industrial applications.

Keywords: Fused Deposition Modeling, Metal 3D printing, Additive Manufacturing, Mechanical Properties, Tensile, 3D printing parameters.

Presenting Author: Ruaa Al Mezrakchi University of Houston- Clear Lake

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Al Mezrakchi is an assistant professor of Mechanical Engineering in the College of Science and Engineering. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University in College Station followed by pursuing her postdoctoral in Mechanical, Materials, and Manufacturing. Prior to joining UHCL, Dr. Al Mezrakchi garnered extensive experience in both teaching and research across various esteemed institutions, including Texas A&M University in College Station and Kingsville and Tarleton State University.

Dr. Al Mezrakchi’s specialized expertise predominantly revolves around Materials, Composites, Design, Control, and Manufacturing. Dr. Al Mezrakchi’s research interests evolved from her multidisciplinary doctoral research experience at Texas A&M University in College Station and subsequent postdoctoral research at Texas A&M University in College Station and Kingsville. Her academic journey has further expanded through faculty appointments held at the University of Houston-Clear Lake and Tarleton State University, contributing significantly to her evolving research interests.

Dr. Al Mezrakchi’s research work was funded by multiple governmental agencies such as US Air Force Research Laboratory AFOSR, Department of Defense DOD, and National Science Foundation NSF. Additionally, her research work was funded by and benefited multiple industrial companies through Advancing Performance Polymers in Energy Applications APPEAL consortia in the Polymer Technology Center at Texas A&M University.

Dr. Al Mezrakchi demonstrates a strong enthusiasm for engaging in collaborations with diverse industrial entities, offering consultation and expertise in domains encompassing materials, composites, manufacturing, control, and design.