Finite element analysis in fused deposition modeling research: A literature review

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a popular rapid prototyping technique. Finite Element (FE) methods are generally applied in simulations of the FDM process. Mostly FE methods are used for initial analysis which are compared with experimental methods. The main objective of this paper is reviewing the existing literature related to finite element methods in FDM research and pointing out some limitations. For the literature review, the selected papers are divided into three domains: thermal analysis, geometrical analysis, and mechanical characterization. It is found that there is no FE model on surface finish and geometrical analysis. However, there are geometrical simulation models on surface finish and geometrical analysis. It is also found that there is no realistic FE model in the existing literature. Realistic FE models are very much required for increasing the prediction accuracy of the models. For this reason, researchers should more focus on the FE analysis of FDM fabricated parts.