Analysis and Prediction of Working Range of Process Parameters for Surface Roughness of 3D Printed Parts with Fused Deposition Modelling

A current manufacturing scenario focuses on processes which can manufacture products at the highest quality with minimum wastage of material. Additive manufacturing is one such technology which can fulfil the demands of today’s manufacturing organisation. Fused Deposition Modelling is a 3D printing process from the additive manufacturing family to build polymer components accurately with almost negligible wastage of material. In the current investigation, analysis and prediction of the operating range of process parameters for surface roughness of 3D printed parts are presented. During the investigation, orientation is an essential aspect of the surface of fused deposition modelling printed parts. From contour plots, it is concluded that orientations 0⁰ to 15⁰ and 85⁰ to 90⁰ with a layer thickness range of 0.12 mm to 0.16 mm and Infill density within 80% to 90% are found to be suitable working range for better surface roughness below 6 µm.