Work

Cutting tests and performance evaluation of recycled PET in fused filament fabrication

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technology in 3D printing offers numerous advantages; however, surface quality remains a significant challenge. This study investigates how the hardness and melt flow properties of the raw material affect surface roughness and how this can be improved by post-machining. Modified recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (RPET) was used as the raw material in the experiments, considering aspects of the circular economy. The material properties were adjusted by varying the ratio of ethylene-butyl-acrylate-glycidyl-methacrylate (EBA-GMA) additive. It was demonstrated that a decrease in the melt flow rate (MFR) results in more uniform deposited layers, leading to smoother surfaces. By systematically varying turning parameters and applying statistical analysis, it was shown that feed rate has the most significant impact on surface roughness. Using a feed rate of 0.1 mm/rev reduced the average surface roughness from 13–25 µm to 2–4 µm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that post-processing surface characteristics were minimally influenced by material properties, suggesting that the results are likely applicable to 3D printing with other materials as well.

Source: Materials Today Sustainability

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtsust.2025.101126

Authors: Gábor Kónya, László Tóth, Péter Gerse, Ferenc Palásti, Pál Hansághy, Ferenc Ronkay

Institutions: John von Neumann University, Eszterhazy Karoly Catholic University

Language: English

Topic: Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,530