Exploring Advanced Structural Designs with 3D-Printed Metallic Isogrid Lattice Cylindrical Shells: Manufacturing, Testing, and Simulation

This paper delves into the exploration of advanced structural designs through the application of 3D-printed metallic isogrid lattice cylindrical shells. Combining the benefits of isogrid lattice configurations and additive manufacturing, these cylindrical shells offer a unique blend of enhanced strength-to-weight ratio and structural efficiency. The study briefly focuses on the complete process, encompassing design, manufacturing, testing, and simulation. A 3D-printing approach using the laser powder-bed fusion process and tailored for the manufacturing of metallic high-performance maraging steel isogrid lattice parts is developed, considering material selection, print parameters, and post-processing techniques. Mechanical testing is conducted to characterize the structural performance of the fabricated cylindrical shells, including load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and failure modes. Furthermore, finite element simulations are employed to validate the experimental results and gain deeper insights into the structural behavior under various loading conditions. The findings demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of 3D-printed metallic isogrid lattice cylindrical shells as exceptional load-bearing structures with superior mechanical properties. This study contributes to an initial understanding of the relationship between design parameters, material characteristics, and structural performance, paving the way for the design and optimization of lightweight and robust structures in diverse engineering applications. Future research avenues are proposed to further refine the fabrication process, explore advanced material combinations, and broaden the applicability of 3D-printed metallic isogrid lattice cylindrical shell structures in fields such as aerospace, automotive, and other industries demanding high-strength, lightweight components.