Mechanical and Thermal Behaviour of 3D printed Carbon Fiber/PLA Composites for Automotive Sump Guard Applications

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical and thermal behaviour of 3D printed Carbon Fiber reinforced Polylactic Acid (CF/PLA) composites for automotive sump guard applications. The specimens were fabricated using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) with varying infill densities to analyse their influence on performance characteristics. Mechanical behaviour was evaluated using drop weight impact testing, while thermal properties were analysed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The results indicate that the incorporation of carbon Fiber significantly enhances the impact resistance and energy absorption capability of PLA. An increase in infill density resulted in improved stiffness, higher peak impact force, and greater energy absorption, with the fully dense specimen exhibiting maximum performance. Thermal analysis revealed that CF/PLA composites possess stable glass transition and melting temperatures, with increased crystallinity observed at higher infill densities, contributing to improved thermal stability. Overall, the study demonstrates that 3D printed CF/PLA composites are promising lightweight materials for automotive sump guard applications, offering a balance between mechanical strength, energy absorption, and thermal stability.

 Cite as:

Prashanth Y, & Nanjundaradhya N. V. (2026). Mechanical and Thermal Behaviour of 3D printed Carbon Fiber/PLA Composites for Automotive Sump Guard Applications. Recent Trends in Thermodynamics and Thermal Energy System, 2(2), 24–45. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21262035