This paper aims to define the best building orientation for parts manufactured with the laminated object manufacturing technique (LOM), to enhance their flexural performance. Previous research has shown that parts manufactured with LOM have the ability to withstand higher deflections than components created through other layer manufacturing techniques, but, so far, no relation between the building orientation and flexural strength of parts has been assessed.Four types of specimens have been manufactured, each of them using a different building orientation. They have been tested in a fourloading-points machine to evaluate their failure mode, and extract a conclusion of the best building orientation towards flexural load. 45 degrees was found to be the best building orientation in terms of maximum load before failure. Furthermore, a repetitive failure pattern was found for each tested condition. It is confirmed that building orientation is a relevant parameter in LOM manufacturing with influence on the mechanical properties of parts.

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Purpose -A structured customer-driven and integrative methodology to develop materials is described. The proposed methodology is aimed to drive analysis and prioritization of the multiple variables involved in a new application case for 3D printing, which involves the development of a new alumina-starch-based powder. Design/methodology/approach -The development of new powder mixture designed for 3D printing of refractory supports for metal casting moulds is presented. The quality function deployment (QFD) method was applied. Inputs for QFD analysis were found using total quality management tools. Using this approach, six process and material variables were considered to drive a prioritization analysis using a Plackett-Burman Design of Experiment (DOE) array. As performance parameter, compressive resistance was measured and assessed. Findings -QFD analysis delivered standardized procedures, irrelevant factors and target values for intermediate step parameters. Sintering parameters were found to be the most influencing over compressive resistance.Research limitations/implications -The methodology was based upon a materials development case for 3D printing. Practical implications -Knowing in advance the influence of every affecting factor of the process provides a closer control on variability of final part properties, which is a key issue to launch parts into industrial applications. Quality planning and documentation in advanced is the basis for all the quality system of the new additive manufacturing (AM) process to be created. Originality/value -Procedures for quality planning and control were proposed. This study, as methodological research, intends to introduce industrial engineering practices and quality management routines for AM material/process developers.