Optimizing printing parameters for enhanced mechanical properties of 3D printed PLA octet lattice structures

Abstract

3D printers, known as one of the rapid prototyping methods, are used in research and academic studies as well as industry. This technology makes it easy and fast to produce a preliminary prototype of a design. This study explores the impact of printing parameters on the mechanical properties of 3D-printed octet lattice structures using PLA material. Focused on optimizing layer thickness, print speed, and infill density, the study employed Taguchi methodology. Compressive strength and strength per mass were the key metrics analyzed. The optimized parameters, determined as 0.2 mm layer thickness, 90 mm/s print speed, and 100% infill density, significantly enhanced compressive strength. Infill density emerged as the most influential factor, contributing to 82.75% of the overall variation. A robust predictive model was developed, achieving a 92.06% accuracy in estimating compressive strength per mass values. These findings provide crucial guidelines for manufacturing high-strength, lightweight PLA octet lattice structures, vital in industries like aerospace and automotive. This study advances additive manufacturing, opening avenues for further research in diverse lattice structures and materials.