3D Printed Sand Texture and Density Improvements for Modeling
Published: 2025
Publication Name: International Journal of Metalcasting
Publication URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40962-025-01675-8
Abstract:
Within the field of 3D sand printing, there is a growing need to understand the anisotropic behavior of sand in the build envelope of 3D sand printers. For metal casting, this understanding will improve mold accuracy and design. This work provides methodologies to characterize printed sand’s density and surface texture as related to orientation within a printer build envelope, two properties that directly impact liquid metal flow and solidification. Density of printed sand samples was found to vary based on the travel direction of the printer recoater. Surface roughness was found to be influenced by multiple factors, each changing the surface roughness by up to 13%. These findings highlight the importance of considering anisotropy in the design of 3D printed sand molds. The methodologies developed in this study provide a foundation for future research aimed at improving the modeling of complex 3D printed sand molds.