Correlating polyamide powder flowability to mechanical properties of parts fabricated by additive manufacturing

This study investigates the relationships between the flow properties of five blends of polyamide 12, with the mechanical and physical characteristics of the fabricated components. The bulk properties and flowability of the powder blends were characterised using powder rheology. Absolute, or skeletal volume of 3D printed cubes were measured using helium pycnometry. The tensile behaviour and surface hardness of specimens fabricated from the five blends were determined. The mechanical properties of the samples were correlated with the flow behaviour of the powder used. Comparison of the powder flow measures with the mechanical properties of the fabricated parts allows for prediction of final product quality prior to printing. Understanding the relationships between these parameters helps to identify and develop powders that enhance both process efficiency and the mechanical properties of the final product.