Using Experimental Results to Determine Calculation Parameters for Press Fitting Ball Bearings into 3D Printed Parts

Abstract

This research paper considers an experimental approach to determining the parameters necessary for the calculation of a compressed assembly of a 3D-printed plastic housing and a radial ball bearing. The housing was produced using FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology and PET-G filament with a cross-section of 1.75 mm. Printed bearing seats were made in resolutions of 0.16 mm and 0.2 mm. The experiment was conducted on samples where the required compression force and the force of assembly between the bearing and the housing were examined. The bearing seats have a nominal measurement smaller by 0.2 mm in the model than the bearing being installed. The dimensions of the housing openings were measured after printing to determine roundness. Using the data obtained experimentally, results were put into the expressions for forces required to assemble and disassemble the parts, and friction coefficients were derived from them. These coefficients can be used as guidelines for calculating and designing 3D-printed openings into which metal parts are pressed.