Durability of chain transmission obtained using FFF technology

Abstract

Durability of polymer (PCTG, ABS, PLA) chain gears with a modular chain obtained by 3D printing (FFF - Fused Filament Fabrication) was tested under static and dynamic conditions. An analysis was performed using finite element modeling (FEM). The PLA gear showed the highest tensile strength, and the PCTG gear the lowest. However, in dynamic conditions (rotational speed 750 min-1), the ABS gear was characterized by the smallest deformation and the longest operating time. Chain links were damaged at the point of connection during both static and dynamic tensile tests. Probably the surface of the hole where the chain links were joined was not smooth enough, which could lead to their damage.