Development of a 3D Printer with Dual Extrusion Head for Industrial Applications

Abstract

Commonly, Additive manufacturing (AM) is used for prototyping due to the low performance of thermoplastic materials that are used in these technologies. Therefore, developing a semi-industrial Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printer is pursued to extend printing services into the industrial sector. This development is carried out with IP3D S.A.S, a strategic partnership engaged in constructing and commercializing 3D printers, providing printing services, and showcasing the advantages of 3D printing technology. One of the significant challenges in entering the industrial sector is the high cost of printers that can produce high-performance parts. Affordable printers are typically limited to generating low-performance components, restricting their use to prototypes and decorative items. However, the increasing availability of advanced polymer filament materials for 3D printing enables the attainment of desired performance levels for end-use applications. Nevertheless, there remains a shortage of printing systems capable of processing these materials due to high temperatures and robust control parameters requirements. Consequently, this study proposes an investigation into material properties and process parameters to comprehend the unique characteristics of these advanced materials. The goal is to develop a printing system capable of processing these materials and generating printed components that meet the rigorous demands of industry. Through this research, a pathway is envisioned to bridge the gap between available 3D printing technologies and the emerging potential of advanced polymer materials, facilitating their integration into industrial applications.