Projeto e protótipo de mini-extrusora para produção de filamento para impressoras 3D a partir de resíduos de impressão

Abstract

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process capable of producing three-dimensional parts by depositing material layer by layer, mostly plastics such as ABS and PLA. As a result of this process, printing waste is generated, which does not have a proper final destination and is usually incorrectly disposed of, becoming an environmental obstacle. In light of this problem, a project and prototype of a mini-extruder were developed for the production of filament used in 3D printers, utilizing the recycling of printing waste to reduce the environmental impact. These waste materials can be reprocessed through an extrusion process, thus producing new filaments for 3D printing. This project was carried out following the methodology of Pahl et al. to generate two design concepts, which were then compared and evaluated, and the alternative that best suited the identified needs was selected. After the selection, the components of the project were dimensioned and modeled, with calculations to determine the electrical aspects and the selection of materials for machined parts. The project budget was prepared, including the cost of all components, in order to manufacture the components for the prototype assembly. With the prototype ready, functional and operational tests were conducted to validate the equipment. Analyzing the obtained results, it was concluded that the prototype is functional in terms of speed and temperature control, but it presented failures in the continuity of the filament extrusion process, which can be improved in future studies. Therefore, it can be concluded that the objective of this project was partially achieved.