Planning Quality Control in the Implementation of 3D Printing Processes. A Case Study

Industry manufactories spent more resources on optimizing the processes of faultless production, satisfying customers with a high new level of quality. Due to this new reality companies are making a focus on methodologies that will help to control production waste, cost, production time, etc. More rational application of both quality control, and scheduling is in need. The article presents analyzes that concern a detailed assessment of the quality control of the tested process. The analyzes used typical quality control tools that are commonly used in control processes. Qualitative analyzes were performed using three basic tools: Pareto-Lorenz diagram (quantitative analysis), Ishikawa diagram (qualitative analysis for causes), and risk analysis (FMEA). The quality analyzes presented in this article show the tasks of the quality control department in detecting production non-conformities and preparing for preventive actions in manufacturing processes. The authors present analyzes both in the control process, but also at the planning stage of these processes. The defects in the 3D printing process can be physical or software-related, and their causes need to be analysed constantly. It also provides examples of defects that can occur during 3D printing, such as plastic overheating, web formation, and software setup errors. The importance of proper calibration of the 3D printing machine, choosing the right plastic and environmental conditions, such as temperature and moisture, for avoiding defects is mentioned. The moisture contained in the air can spoil plastic filaments, and the plastic needs to be dried before loading into the 3D printer. The research results are guidelines for further actions in the scope of improving procedures. A plan of changes necessary in the process of quality assurance, with particular consideration of mass production. The results of the analyses focus on the stage of process preparation and control of the first batch.