Finite Element Analysis of PolyLactic Acid (PLA) under Tensile and Compressive Loading

Abstract

Additive manufacturing or 3D-Printing technology is being utilized heavily in recent times, especially in a range of manufacturing industries. Many types and sizes of 3D-printers are being utilized in producing ceramic, metal, or plastic components. This technology is serving society in many aspects, such as minimizing environmental impact, reduction in cost, and even material consumption. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a thermoplastic filament type material used in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printers. In this study, finite element analysis is used to simulate the mechanical behaviour of PLA in both solid and a 60% infill conditions. Simulations are done to predict strength and other mechanical properties in both tensile and compressive loadings using ABAQUS. The results provide insight on the performance of PLA under above mentioned conditions. It is concluded the carefully selected infill pattern can result in less material consumption together with nearly same mechanical performance as the sound PLA objects.