Properties of 3D printed structure manufactured with integrated pressing mechanism in FDM

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is one of the most economical additive manufacturing (AM)/3D printing methods for complex geometry components. FDM works by depositing layer by layer fabrication directly from CAD file. In the FDM process, the properties of parts depend on the proper selection of process parameters. Generally, the mechanical properties and surface quality of FDM parts are still relatively low compared to the typical manufacturing method. The study aims to fill the gap by modifying the current open-source 3D printer to improve the mechanical properties and surface quality by integrating the pressing mechanism. This study investigates the effect of three different types of pressing mechanism (roller, ball, and press) and compares with normal open source and commercial 3D printer. This research investigates the tensile strength and surface roughness when the 3D components are fabricated using these different mechanisms. Each pressing tool has a different shape, size, ability, and function, which affect the application of pressing mechanism during 3D printing. Based on the results, the roller pressing mechanism shows a better effect on the FDM components. It was found that, when the roller mechanism is integrated with the 3D printer, the tensile strength and the surface roughness can be improved. The findings indicate that the roller mechanism can potentially be used as integrated pressing tools to be attached to the 3D printer in improving its properties.