Design for the Methodological Approach of Mechanical Torque Testing of 3D Printed Gears

This study experimentally investigated a selected methodology of mechanical torque testing of 3D printed gears. The motivation for pursuing this topic of research stemmed from a previous experience of one of the team members that propelled inspiration to quantify how different variables associated with 3D printing affect the structural integrity of the resulting piece. With this goal in mind, the team set forward with creating an experimental set-up and the construction of a test rig. However, due to restrictions in time and other unforeseen circumstances, this thesis underwent a change in scope. The new scope focused solely on determining if the selected methodology of mechanical torque testing was valid. Following the securement of parts and construction of a test rig, the team was able to conduct mechanical testing. This testing was done multiple times on an identically printed gear. The data collected showed results similar to a stress-strain curve when the torque was plotted against the angle of twist. In the resulting graph, the point of plastic deformation is clearly visible and the maximum torque the gear could withstand is clearly identifiable. Additionally, across the tests conducted, the results show high similarity in results. From this, it is possible to conclude that if the tests were repeated multiple times the maximum possible torque could be found. From that maximum possible torque, the mechanical strength of the tested gear could be identified.