Simulation-Based Optimization of 3D-Printed PLA Octet-Truss Lattices Reinforced with Directionally Aligned Recycled Steel Fibers Using ANSYS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26821/ijshre.14.10.2026.141002Cuvinte cheie:
Octet-truss lattice, PLA, recycled steel fiber, ANSYS simulation, strength-to-weight ratio, additive manufacturingRezumat
Developments in 3D printing enable complex lattice structures to be formed that are otherwise challenging, if not completely impossible, to make using other techniques. There are multiple variations of lattice structures, but one of the more popular variations is the octet-truss lattice. While somewhat load-bearing, PLA, the most common material used in FDM, lacks sufficient strength. This study aims to assess the advantages of using recycled steel fiber reinforcement to improve the performance and load-bearing capacity of the lattice structures with little to no incorporation of additional experimentation and sample fabrication. The sample was created and modeled in CAD, and then imported to ANSYS. The sample was then homogenized and low-steel fiber loadings (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) were incorporated to assess their performance. Twenty experiments were performed to assess the sample's deformation, von Mises stress, safety factor, stiffness, and mass. The SWR was calculated by dividing the Ultimate Load (UL) by the corresponding Applied Load (AL). The results showed a reduction of maximum deformation of 25% to 26% for 0.5 wt%, 33% to 34% for 1 wt%, and 26% to 27% for 2 wt% respectively. The findings also indicated that the samples demonstrated a 34% to 35% increase in stiffness and an 11% to 12% increase in SWR, and a 8.9% increase in mass. The unreinforced lattice showed a break in the yield stress range of 300 N to 400 N, whereas the 2 wt% loading showed a safety factor of 1.0 at 500 N. In Summary, uniform reinforcement improved the load bearing of lattices.
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