Work

Tensile and Structural Performance of Annealed 3D-Printed Polymer Composite Impellers for Pump-as-Turbine Applications in District Heating Networks

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the mechanical performance of three temperature-resistant 3D-printable polymer composites for turbine impellers used in district heating networks for pressure reduction. Using fused deposition modeling (FDM), tensile strength and deformation of ASA-X CF10, PA6-GF30, and ePAHT-CF15 were evaluated at temperatures representative of real operating conditions (60-130 °C). These polymer composites were systematically tested, with particular emphasis on annealed ePAHT-CF15. Results demonstrated that annealing significantly improved mechanical performance, yielding higher tensile strength, Young's modulus, and reduced deformation. Structural analyses confirmed that ePAHT-CF15, particularly when annealed at 200 °C, exhibited superior thermal stability and rigidity, making it the optimal material choice for high-temperature turbine impeller applications. These findings support the design of 3D-printed composite impellers for pump-as-turbine applications in district heating systems, where high stiffness and heat resistance are required.

Source: Materials

DOI: 10.3390/ma19010127

Authors: Dominik Błoński, Grzegorz Romanik, Michał Augustyn, Paweł Regucki

Institution: Wrocław University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137