Melt flow analysis in rotational nozzle fused filament fabrication process

Abstract

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is a widely used processing method; however, heat transfer limitations within a conventional nozzle result in relatively low flow rates, leading to lengthy production times, compared to traditional processing methods, ultimately restricting its industrial application. Recently, a novel rotational nozzle FFF three-dimensional (3 D) printer has been patented and developed to enhance processing efficiency. Despite this achievement, the fundamental mechanisms behind this novel process remain unclear. In this study, both analytical analysis and numerical simulations were conducted based on a force-controlled scaled-down experimental setup. This setup, designed according to the pressure-induced melt removal theory, provided melt throughput data under varying heater temperatures, extrusion forces, and rotational speeds. Agreement between the modeling and experimental results confirms the generalizability of the models. Modeling predictions of temperature and velocity distributions indicate that viscous dissipation affects the average temperature and filament velocity. To simulate the real-world working conditions of FFF 3 D printing, a velocity-controlled simulation was introduced. It was observed that the average melt film thickness increases with nozzle rotational speed due to viscous dissipation. Additionally, the extrusion force required for the same printing speed decreases with increasing nozzle rotational speed, primarily due to the higher shear rate reducing melt viscosity.