An Investigation on Dimensional Accuracy of 3D Printed PLA, PET-G and ABS Samples with Different Layer Heights

Abstract

In this study, the effect of filament type and layer height on the dimensional accuracy of the 3D printed tensile test samples from PLA, PET-G, and ABS was investigated in depth. Based on the fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology, tensile test samples were produced with various layer heights (0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, and 0.4 mm) while the other printing parameters were kept constant, except for nozzle and building platform temperature. Length, width, and height values of the produced test samples were measured, and obtained results were compared with design dimensions to observe the dimensional accuracy of each sample. Also, surface roughness measurements were performed on the samples to examine their final surface quality. From dimensional measurements, it was seen that the most accurate results were recorded for PET-G (in length and height) and PLA (in width) samples. Furthermore, the best surface quality was attained in PLA samples compared to other filaments.