Simulation of Processes Occurring in the Extrusion Head Used in Additive Manufacturing Technology

The purpose of this research is unsatisfactory state of knowledge of the abrasive wear of composites with thermoplastic polymer as matrix material and reinforcing material in the form of short and focused carbon fibers that can be used in additive manufacturing technologies. The paper presents a conceptual design of an extrusion head used in Fused Deposition Technology, which allows for the implementation of appropriately stacked fibers at the level of detail production. Finite element simulation was performed to simulate the thermal effect of the system to demonstrate the effect of head cooling on the system. The assumed extrusion temperature of the material was obtained at a uniform nozzle temperature and stable temperature of the entire system. Flow simulation of thermoplastic polymer was carried out in the designed extrusion nozzle. By supplying 0.5 mm wire of 1.75 mm diameter thermoplastic material to the nozzle, the extrusion rate was 0.192 m/s. The proper design of the extrusion head for the intended applications has been demonstrated and the purpose of further research in this field has been confirmed.