Performance prediction of different BCC lattice structures under static loading: an experimental approach

Modern-era researchers are interested in searching for new durable and sustainable materials. Cellular structures are the novel solution which exhibits high strength. Micro lattice structures are systematically arranged structures with a high strength-to-weight ratio. Micro lattice structures can be utilized widely as thermal insulators, energy, and vibration absorber in aircraft and automobile sectors. This study compares the mechanical characteristics of various BCC topologies that are frequently used today. Seven different types of cellular structures with different topologies viz. BCC, BCC enhanced, and BCCz, along with varied unit cell sizes and variations in strut diameter, were fabricated using SLS method. The primary cube was prepared as BCC (body-cubic centered), BCC enhanced, BCCz type with 2 x 2 x 2 mm sizes. The SS316 metal was used for these initial cells because to its superior corrosion resistance and improved mechanical performance. These primary cells were repeatedly constructed with patterns in the three X, Y, and Z axes, resulting in total sample sizes of 20 x 20 x 20 mm. FE analysis was performed using an FEA solver, and results were compared with experimental results. The result shows that BCCz exhibits superior mechanical properties, whereas BCC enhanced has more strength than regular BCC topology. The BCCZ showed a 62% rise in stress-carrying capacity compared to traditional lattice structure, whereas BCC enhanced showed the 22% rise in stress-carrying capacity. The consequence of size of unit cell is inspected for the outcome of lattices. The smaller unit cell lattice shows more significant yield stress for traditional BCC and enhanced BCC structure. Such a study can undoubtedly open doors for further research on the change in various topologies on the mechanical attributes of lattices under different loading conditions.