SUMMARY

Lattices fabricated with laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) have many applications in a structural context, particularly where there is a need for strong, stiff, and lightweight materials. One of the major advantages of lattices is that their mechanical properties can be controlled by adjusting their geometry. In this study, lattice struts were designed to optimize their structural performance. Since lattices tend to fail at the joints under tensile and compressive loads, these strut designs are wider at the ends than the center to provide reinforcement where it is most needed. Finite element (FE) simulations were conducted to investigate the elasticity and yield behavior of lattices composed of these nonuniform struts in comparison to lattices with uniform cylindrical struts while holding the volume constant. The simulation results were validated with physical compression tests. It was found that the nonuniform strut lattices had higher strength and stiffness than uniform strut lattices of equal weight and volume under compressive loading.