Selection of Removable FDM Support Materials
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54097/2sqe1p24Keywords:
FDM 3D printing technology, support materials, soluble materials, sand support.Abstract
The selection of support materials in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology directly affects the quality of printed parts and the efficiency of post-processing. This paper systematically reviews the research on the removability of FDM support materials. Firstly, it analyzes the dissolution mechanism of soluble materials (such as PVA and AA copolymers) and their advantages and limitations in precision manufacturing. Secondly, the cost-effectiveness and applicable scenarios of mechanically removed materials (such as PLA) were discussed, and their drawback of easily damaging the main body was highlighted. In addition, the potential and challenges of emerging technologies such as composite materials and sand supports are introduced. The research further compared the performance of different materials and summarized the shortcomings of existing technologies in terms of environmental friendliness, cost, and application scope. Finally, the future development directions were proposed, including optimizing material ratios, developing recyclable support materials, and improving process design, to promote the application of FDM technology in industrial and high-precision fields. This article provides a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the scientific selection of supporting materials.
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