Sliding surface structure comparison of 3D printed polymers using FDM and DLP technologies

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to review the surface structure of the parts that are manufactured using various techniques of 3D printing. Particularly, two different methods were employed in the current work: Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) and digital light projection (DLP). The output of both technologies regarding the surface construction aspects was evaluated and compared. For determining the features of the surfaces, an optical microscope was utilised for taking the pictures from the cross-sectional area (upper and lower edges) and the outer face of the samples. Various magnification values have been investigated to find the best sights at the surface structure of the printed bodies. Surface roughness was examined due to its relevance to the texture properties of the fabricated pieces. The tribology of the workpieces has been tested as well. The results show that the products of the FDM technique have been characterised with a rough surface and anisotropic properties which were reflected on the examined measurements. In contrast, the DLP method has revealed objects with a very smooth surface and approximately homogeneous structure.