Researchers from Texas A&M University and Texas Tech University have collaborated with 3D printing company Essentium Materials. The study shows how an FDM 3D printer coupled with an electric welding processes and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can boost a 3D prints strength.
The aim of the research is to improve the z-axis strength of 3D printed parts. Success would mean 3D printed parts with similar strength to those produced with injection molding.
By microwaving the 3D printed CNT infused thermoplastic, the group of researchers were able to improve weld fracture strength by 275%.
FlashFuse
Working on the project was Founder and CTO of Essentium, Blake Teipel, the company has developed a 3D printer add-on called the ‘FuseBox.’ The device uses an electric welding technique that the company call ‘FlashFuse’.
保险箱将于今年晚些时候上市，德克萨斯公司也在工作与世界上最大的化学生产商巴斯夫的合作伙伴关系。
GIF显示Fusebox 3D打印过程。图像通过Essentium材料。
研究过程
该研究使用堆叠器500台式3D打印机和丝状丝状丝（CNT），研究验证了用微波辐照的粘结沉积层的过程。
热塑性细丝涂在碳纳米管墨水浴中。一旦干燥，材料就会被挤出以创建具有对射频敏感的外部的层。在这项研究中，使用工程级PLA细丝来测试该过程。
3D打印结构对160°C的电磁波进行60秒。结果，将层融合在一起以形成更牢固的键并在构建方向上提高强度（z轴）。
Superior strength
Documenting the results of the project, the researchers found they were able to improve strength of 3D printed parts. The paper explains a number of tests were performed to understand the results of the process, including trouser tear tests which explored the fracture strength of the welded parts. In comparison to the control 3D printed structure, the researchers found the welded objects were stronger in interlayer bonding along the z-axis.
Future of flash fuse
研究小组还计划了进一步的研究：我们预计该过程可以扩展到其他热塑性塑料的加成生产。”雷电竞充值
该论文是“通过本地诱导的微波加热的3D打印碳纳米管 - 聚合物复合材料的焊接”是published online in科学进步。作者的完整清单包括德克萨斯A＆M大学的研究人员：Charles B. Sweeney，Blake A. Lackey，Martin J. Pospisil，Thomas C. Achee，Victoria K. Hicks，Aaron G. Moran和Micah J. Green。除了德克萨斯理工大学的Mohammad A. Saed和Essentium Materials LLC的Blake Teipel。
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Featured image shows figure 1 from the paper which outlines the problem of weak z strength in 3D printed parts. Image via Science Advances.
