Effect of Build Orientation on Mechanical Behaviour and Build Time of FDM 3D-Printed PLA Parts: An Experimental Investigation

One of the important process parameters affecting the tensile strength and build time of the part is the build orientation. Therefore, in this study, FDM 3D-printed PLA parts were fabricated at different build orientations to examine the effects of build orientation on the tensile properties and build time of material. In this regard, three build orientations and three print angles were examined. According to results, tensile strength decreased when the build orientation of the parts was aligned from flat to upright direction and 0° to 90° printing angle. For upright build orientation, 36% less tensile strength obtained than the flat ones because of the fracture mode and the loading direction. In terms of build time, build time increased as the build orientation changed from flat to upright. Therefore, the build orientation had a big impact on the tensile properties and build time of the parts produced using FDM. The findings of this study will contribute to the literature on proper build orientations and print angles.