Optimization of Stereolithography Process Parameters for Part Strength using Taguchi Technique
Raju B. S1, Chandra Sekhar U2, Drakshayani D. N3

1Prof. Raju B.S, Department of Mechanical Engineering, REVA University, REVA ITM, Bangalore (Karnataka), India.
2Dr. Chandra Sekhar U, Former Scientist G, GTRE & Director, Institution of Engineers, Gachibowl, Hyderabad (Telangana), India.
3Dr. Drakshayani D. N, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sir. M.VIT, Bangalore (Karnataka), India.
Manuscript received on 10 July 2014 | Revised Manuscript received on 20 July 2014 | Manuscript Published on 30 July 2014 | PP: 47-52 | Volume-4 Issue-2, July 2014 | Retrieval Number: B1736074214/14©BEIESP
Open Access | Editorial and Publishing Policies | Cite | Mendeley | Indexing and Abstracting
© The Authors. Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Abstract: Rapid prototyping (RP) is an emerging technology that has been implemented in many spheres of industry – particularly in the area of new product development. Growth of this field has been rapid in recent years. Stereolithography (SL) is one of the most popular RP process used for rapid tooling applications. There are several process parameters contributing to the strength of SL product. The contribution of the identified parameters: i.e., layer thickness(Lt ), Orientation(O) and hatch spacing (Hs )which are more significant factors contributing to the strength of an SL product. An attempt has been made in order to study and optimize these process parameters in order to maximize the part strength and also development of an empirical model which depicts the relationship between the process parameters and part strength through taguchi technique and Analysis of variance. The detailed study of the effects of these parameters was carried out over the SLA parts and the data were analyzed by quantitative methods. The optimum levels of the parameter contributing to higher tensile/ impact and flexural strength of the part are the end results of the paper, which is very useful information for machine designers as well as RP machine users. The results obtained were utilized to select the main influencing parameters and the best parameter settings for yielding the optimum objectives.
Keywords: ANOVA, Hatch Space, Layer Thickness, Mechanical Properties, Orientation, Stereolithography Process, Taguchi Technique.

Scope of the Article: Manufacturing Processes