Erosion Resistance of 3D Printed Materials

Abstract

This diploma thesis investigates the disintegration of 3D printed AISI 316L and casted AISI 316L materials using Pulsating Water Jet technology. Ultrasonically produced pulsating water jets are widely used in erosion resistance tests, making it an ideal method for this experiment. The primary objective of this study is to find a suitable material for erosion resistance that can withstand high-speed water droplets or abrasive particles in harsh environments. In the present study the experiment was conducted using two types of materials, 3D printed AISI 316L and casted AISI 316L, and involved exposing the materials to pulsating water jets of varying frequencies (f = 20 kHz and 40 kHz) and exposure times (t = 0 to 10 seconds, in 0.5-second intervals). After the experiment, the disintegration depth of the materials was measured using Alicona 3D optical microscopy. The results of the experiment showed that with increased exposure time, higher disintegration depth was achieved due to increased number of impingements. It also compares the erosion resistance of 3D printed AISI 316L and Casted AISI 316L and provides insights into the factors that contribute to the differences between the two. The study concludes that 3D printed AISI 316L is a more suitable material for resistance against water droplet erosion its potential applications in various industrial fields.