| Abstract Scope |
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is a key thermoplastic additive manufacturing technique with extensive applications. However, traditional FFF faces challenges in zero-gravity or other unconventional environments, where maintaining consistent nozzle standoff distances is difficult. This often results in poor material adhesion, dimensional inaccuracies, and high failure rates, necessitating constant human oversight. To address these issues, the Electric Field-Assisted FFF (E-FFF) process has been developed. This innovative approach incorporates a high-voltage power supply with a standard FFF printer to create an electrostatic force between the nozzle and the build plate. This force effectively draws the extruded polymer towards the build plate, improving adhesion even at greater distances, such as in vertical or reverse orientations. Finite element analysis validates the E-FFF process by simulating and optimizing the required voltage for effective adhesion, demonstrating its potential to enhance reliability in FFF without continuous monitoring. |