Thermal annealing optimization for improved mechanical performance of PLA parts produced via 3D printing

Highlights

• Thermal annealing enhances the mechanical performance of 3D-printed PLA parts.
• Taguchi and GRA methods efficiently optimize post-processing parameters.
• Increased crystallinity improves the strength and structural integrity of PLA parts.
• Controlled annealing conditions mitigate risks of over-crystallization.

Abstract

This study employs an integrated approach using Taguchi, ANOVA, and Grey Relational Analysis to optimize the mechanical performance of PLA parts produced via Fused Filament Fabrication through controlled thermal annealing. The analysis examines the effects of annealing temperature and time on tensile, flexural, compressive, and impact strengths, aiming to identify optimal post-processing conditions for improved material properties. Annealing temperatures ranged from 70 °C to 110 °C, and durations varied between 40 and 200 min. Key findings indicate that the most influential parameters were achieved at 90 °C for 120 min, yielding notable enhancements in tensile strength, flexural strength, compressive strength, and impact resistance. The Taguchi method identified optimal conditions for each mechanical property, with temperature emerging as the most influential factor. ANOVA analysis further quantified the contribution ratio of temperature and time, validating the Taguchi results and confirming that temperature accounted for most of the variation in mechanical performance. Differential Scanning Calorimetry supported these findings, showing increased crystallinity in PLA, thus highlighting the significant impact of optimized thermal annealing on enhancing 3D-printed PLA parts.