Challenges in Tensile Testing of Thermoplastic Composites Reinforced with Chopped Carbon Fibre Produced by Fused Filament Fabrication Method

Additive manufacturing is a relatively new technology that has recently undergone noticeable development, which includes several types of technologies based on the gradual deposition of material in layers. The most widespread method is Fused Filament Fabrication, which belongs to an extrusion technique. The typical feature of extrusion methods is material deposition in the filaments form. Therefore, printer users cannot apply the same approach to products as with conventional technologies. The authors of the paper have been working with the mentioned technology for several years. The primary goal of the research is the investigation how printing parameters affect the mechanical properties of laminates reinforced with chopped carbon fibres. Based on experience and knowledge, the authors report in this article the most common challenges encountered in the preparation process of specimens for tensile testing. This knowledge can also help ordinary users of 3D printers, who also face these challenges without being aware of the impact of these pitfalls on mechanical properties.