Rapid, Low-Cost Fabrication of Reinforced, Closed-Loop Toothed Belts via 3D Printed Molds

Author(s):

Derek J. Bischoff, Michael J. DeGrange, Anthony M. Clay, and Eric D. Wetzel

Abstract:

3D printed molds are used to fabricate custom length, fiber-reinforced, closed-loop toothed belts. Two strategies are demonstrated to release the cast belt: dissolution of a mold 3D printed using a water-soluble butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH) polymer, and mechanical removal of a 3D printed, conventional polylactic acid mold. The results show that belts with excellent geometric precision can be produced using either technique; however, the BVOH molds produce a higher-quality belt with easier part release. Belts produced using fiberglass reinforcement and an 80A durometer, two-part castable urethane were tested in tension and found to produce tensile strength and stiffness that are likely to be sufficient for short-term use in many Army applications.