| Abstract Scope |
Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) lattices offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios and efficient load distribution, making them useful for lightweight, energy-absorbing, and thermally efficient components. This study investigates the fabrication of 17-4 PH stainless steel Gyroid and Schwarz P lattices using Metal Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), providing a low-cost alternative to Laser Powder Bed Fusion(L-PBF).
This research evaluates the relationship between manufacturing processes and mechanical performance by comparing the forming fidelity and compressive behavior of both methods. Gyroid and Schwarz P lattices were analyzed through compression testing and finite element modeling. Experimental results show that FF lattices achieved uniform structural integrity with approximately 19% sintering shrinkage. While L-PBF structures exhibited higher yield strengths of 147MPa-10 MPa versus 220MPA-72 MPa across 45-70% porosity ranges, FFF followed Gibson-Ashby power law scaling consistency with bend-dominated architectures. These results validate that Metal FFF can reliably produce TPMS, offering structure-property relationships relevant to scalable lattice manufacturing. |