2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Additive manufacturing is used in this study to fabricate polymer and composite test specimens. The focus is on tensile and flexural performance. Standard tensile specimens follow ASTM D638 and are tested to measure modulus, strength, and strain. Flexural specimens follow ASTM D790 and undergo three-point bending tests for modulus and strength evaluation. The project investigates the influence of raster orientation and infill density on mechanical behavior. Students prepare samples and perform tests during this semester. Parallel finite element models are developed to simulate stress distribution and deformation. Predictions from simulations are compared directly to experimental results. Preliminary findings show tensile properties are highest when printed along the loading direction. Flexural results highlight the weakness caused by poor interlayer bonding. The comparison between simulation and testing helps validate models and improves understanding of anisotropy in printed parts. The project integrates laboratory activities with finite element analysis to enhance student learning. Students gain practical skills in experimental testing and computational modeling. Results from this work will guide design optimization of 3D-printed components. This ongoing project demonstrates the educational and technical value of combining additive manufacturing, mechanical testing, and simulation in engineering courses.