Discrete homogenization of fused deposition modeling parts using the finite element method

Abstract

This article deals with the determination of the effective elastic properties of fused deposition modeling (FDM) parts using the finite element method. As an introduction to the process, the analysis is performed on parts which are oriented in the XY-plane and the build direction in the Z axis, referred in this article as face-up samples. In this approach, a representative volume element (RVE) is created for different raster angles of the printed part in the commercial finite element solver, Abaqus. Orthotropic constitutive model is considered, and the nine elastic constants are computed using the RVE by applying periodic boundary conditions. Finally, three-point bend test is conducted, on an FDM printed beam and the physical tests are validated with simulations using the formed orthotropic material model through simulations.