Dimensional-Shape Verification of a Selected Part of Machines Manufactured by Additive Techniques

The publication covers the complex process of analyzing the accuracy of mapping models produced in AM (Additive Manufacturing) processes with a thermoplastic material – FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) and polymerization of light-curing resin – PolyJet. The research was conducted with the use of an advanced optical measuring system – the GOM Atos 3D scanner. The part selected for the research in question was the water pump body as a representative example of an element with adequate dimensional and shape conditions (high degree of folding and geometric differentiation) allowing, based on the results of coordinate measurements determined in the research process, to define the potential area of application of AM models made of thermoplastic material and resin hardened with UV light. The performed tests showed the accuracy of individual AM methods at a level within the range declared by machine manufacturers. However, the PolyJet body is characterized by a much higher accuracy of the shape mapping compared to the FFF body. The dimensional accuracy is also higher for the resin model in relation to the thermoplastic model, which results primarily from the thickness of the elementary layer of the model material applied by the printing module defined for individual incremental processes – 16 μm for RGD 720 and 0.2 mm for ABS. Detailed elaboration and analysis of the research results are presented in this publication.