Numerical modeling and experimental verification of the composite material of PA12/HA with parameterized random distribution in selective laser sintering
ISSN: 1355-2546
Article publication date: 30 November 2021
Issue publication date: 5 May 2022
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to establish a finite element (FE) model with the random distribution of the Nylon12/hydroxyapatite (PA12/HA) composite material in selective laser sintering (SLS) process for considering the material anisotropy, which aims to obtain the law of temperature and stress changes in PA12/HA sintering.
Design/methodology/approach
By using python script in Abaqus, the FE model is established in which the two materials are randomly distributed and are assigned to their intrinsic temperature-dependent physical parameters. Molten pool sizes at various process parameters were evaluated in terms of numerical simulation and scanning electron microscope analysis, identifying a good agreement between them. Evaluation of temperature and stress distribution under the condition of different HA contents was also conducted.
Findings
It shows that the uneven distribution and quantity of HA powder play a vital role in stress concentration and temperature increase. Additionally, the influence of HA addition on the mechanical performance of SLS-fabricated parts shows that it is conducive to improve compressive strength when the HA ratio is less than 5% because an excess of HA powder tends to bring about a certain amount of microspores resulting in a decrease in part density.
Originality/value
The FE model of the PA12/HA composite material with parameterized random distribution in SLS can be applied in other similar additive manufacturing technologies. It provides a feasible guideline for the numerical analysis of properties of composite materials.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant no. 51775069). The authors thank AiMi Academic Services (www.aimieditor.com) for English language editing and review services.
Citation
Li, J., Yang, Y., Zhao, Z. and Yan, R. (2022), "Numerical modeling and experimental verification of the composite material of PA12/HA with parameterized random distribution in selective laser sintering", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 28 No. 5, pp. 873-883. https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-04-2021-0102
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited