THE FUNCTIONAL DEPENDENCE OF THE 3D PRINTED PARTS BY THEIR TRIBOLOGICAL AND THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS

The popularity of bio - based thermoplastic materials with applications in a variety of industries, including consumer goods, automotive, medical equipment, and so on, has grown significantly in recent years. This increase in the market for biodegradable materials is closely related to the growing concerns of both users and industry, especially in relation to replacing the conventional or non-biodegradable polymeric products on a widespread scale. This study examined the tribological performance (friction coefficient) and wear of biodegradable polymers PLA, HD PLA Green, and Impact PLA Gray in various meteorological testing conditions on a simulation stand that replicate the operation mode of worm-worm wheel assembly as part of the drive mechanism of car wipers. The Impact PLA Gray sample had the greatest average value of a wear coefficient and wear resisting during simulation and best on testing. The lowest performance has been recorded by the PLA sample because its melting temperature is the lowest, thus affecting its resistance to friction and wear. Regarding the possibility of practical use of the worm wheel in the proposed assembly, it is recommended only to use at negative temperatures, below -10°C.