Enhancing Mechanical Properties of PETG by Optimization of Process Parameters Using the Taguchi Method

Fused deposition modeling is the most applied 3D printing technique in numerous fields due to its ease of use and affordability. Nowadays, polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) is used as a replacement for traditional polymers due to its good chemical resistance and mechanical properties. Four process parameters were studied: nozzle temperature (210-270°C), print speed (40-200 mm/s), infill density (50-100 %), and infill pattern (Grid, Cubic, and Gyroid). However, to achieve good performance in service, it is required that the mechanical properties be maximized. Thus, this work intends to adjust the printing parameters (nozzle temperature, print speed, infill density, and infill pattern) for the PETG. Taguchi method was utilized for the experimental procedure design according to the L9 orthogonal array. After printing, the printed samples were evaluated by impact, tensile, bending, and compressive tests. Then, the ANOVA method was conducted with a 95% interval confidence level for result analysis. Optimal parameter combinations made remarkable improvements: impact strength of 28.54 KJ/m 2 yield strength of 47.27 MPa, tensile strength of 60.76 MPa, elongation of 28.96%, flexural strength of 85.42 MPa, compressive yield strength of 60.88 MPa, and a plateau stress of 56.37 MPa.