A Study of Functional Testing with SFF Parts

A study of functional testing with SFF parts is presented. The study includes the use of traditional similitude methods as well as advanced similitude methods for predicting product performance through prototype testing. Cantilever beams created from the selective laser sintering process are used to predict the static deflection of both aluminum and polycarbonate beams. The results of 20 experiments using various geometric, loading, and material configurations are presented. Results of the study suggest that a coupling between geometry and material properties exists in SLS parts. Possible sources for the coupling are discussed. An approach for establishing the functional relationship between material and geometry is outlined.