Uncertainty analysis of multijet modelling processes for rapid prototyping of parts

The present study focuses on aspects of the surface qualities of prototypes obtained by multijet modelling (MJM) techniques. The surface finish and dimensional precision of parts obtained through these manufacturing processes are often highly important, especially in those cases where the manufactured prototypes are used as functional parts, as in the case of lost wax casting. Moreover, it is important to obtain an estimate of the average surface roughness in order to select the appropriate manufacturing parameters. Although there are many different techniques for evaluating surface roughness, one of the most commonly employed methods involves the assessment of the average surface roughness by means of stylus instruments. Prototypes were manufactured using two different MJM systems under different conditions for each prototype. After the parts were obtained, an experimental study of effective roughness was carried out. A comparative study using the same MJM systems with different accuracies was also performed in order to evaluate the capability of these rapid prototyping techniques to manufacture parts.