Enhancing the efficiency of removing support material from rapid prototype parts

Abstract

Abstract The optimal process parameters for removing support material from rapid prototype (RP) part using the Taguchi method are investigated. Four parameters of pH value, solvent temperature, depth of the RP, and distance of the RP part are considered as control factors. The experimental trials based on L 9 (3 4 ) orthogonal array are carried out. Based on the results of analysis of variance, the most significant factor is the solvent temperature having a percentage contribution of 83.32%. Through the confirmation experiment, the savings in the removing time can exceed 70% using the optimal parameters. The mechanism of removing support material from RP part is presented in this work.