Experimental Investigations for Statistically Controlled Rapid Moulding Solution of Plastics Using Polyjet Printing

Rapid prototyping (RP) has been in evidence for the past twenty years and is being widely used in diverse areas, from the building of aesthetic and functional prototypes to the production of tools and moulds for technological prototypes. The purpose of the present study is to experimentally investigate statistically controlled rapid moulding (RM) solutions for plastic components using polyjet printing (PP). Starting from the identification of component/benchmark, prototypes with three different type of plastic material were prepared, at different orientations. Measurements on the coordinate measuring machine helped in calculating the dimensional tolerances of the components prepared. Some important mechanical properties were also compared to verify the suitability of the components. The study highlighted the best orientation, support material quantity and type of plastic material for the selected component from dimensional accuracy and economic point of view as RM solution for plastic components. Final components prepared are acceptable as per ISO standard UNI EN 20286-I (1995). This process ensures rapid production of statistically controlled pre-series technological prototypes and proof of concept at less production cost and time.Copyright © 2010 by ASME