Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies are starting to be part of the naval industrial fabric, not only for creating prototypes, but also, for producing final parts. One of the most interesting AM technologies is material extrusion, mainly of melt thermoplastics, which are able to create 3D parts through a selective layer-by-layer deposition of polymeric melt-material beads.

Concerning industrial area, there is a special interest in the new development of printers with various cubic meters in size, which allow to create parts for sectors such as naval accommodation, automotive, and wind energy.

The development of new materials which satisfy the rheological, functional and mechanical requirements is fundamental for large format additive manufacturing technologies, in order to produce satisfactory parts. The latest published researches are focused on the development of thermoplastic materials reinforced with fibers (mainly carbon and glass) which lend the adequate properties for this end.

Following this trend, this paper is focused on the development of new materials based on ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate), reinforced with carbon fibers, in order to be used in large format additive manufacturing devices for naval sector. Thanks to its intrinsic UV resistance property, this research might contribute to create parts for outdoor emplacement, extending its useful life in service.