Optimization of the features product based on additive technologies

The work presents the results of optimising the material selection and printing parameters of the splitter using additive technologies. Its main goal was to minimise adhesion occurring on the finished model between the material and the epoxy resin. Design/methodology/approach As part of the research, a model of an epoxy resin distributor was prepared and then made using 3D printing technology. The distributor is made in 5 versions of a different thermoplastic material. After printing, the dividers were dipped in epoxy resin. Once the resin had cross-linked, the samples were cut using water-jet cutting. The quality of the resulting connection was assessed using microscopic observations. Findings The multi-criteria analysis performed on five plastics (HIPS, ABS, PET, TPU, HT-PLA) selected the ABS material which met the assumed criteria to the highest extent (94%). Based on the comparison of the time of printing one distributor using a 3D printer with the time of making it using a CNC machine, it was found that it takes much longer than when making it using a CNC machine. The cost of each proposed material used to produce the distributor using additive technology is lower than making the same element from polyethene using a CNC machine. Research limitations/implications Problems that arose during the project implementation were related to the availability of HT-PLA material and limited possibilities of cutting samples because most cutting techniques generate high temperatures that deform the samples, negatively affecting the ability to test them. Practical implications It can be assumed that changing the geometric features of the manifold obtained as a result of using the appropriate pattern, filling density and material with appropriate parameters has a beneficial effect on reducing the material used. Originality/value The main originality of the research is its possibility of practical application. It is important to answer the question of what thermoplastic material should be used to produce elements for processing epoxy resin. It can improve many industries, such as protective coatings, automotive or aviation.