REVIEW OF INJECTION MOLDING MACHINES FOR RECYCLING FDM PRINTING WASTE

Abstract

Recycling of FDM 3D printing process waste remains a pressing issue due to the rapid growth of plastic waste in additive manufacturing, especially in prototyping, medicine and industry. To solve this problem, compact desktop injection molding machines are being actively developed, which provide a full recycling cycle directly at the production site - from laboratories to small workshops. The article is a comprehensive review of the latest designs and technologies of low-power injection molding machines designed for processing popular PLA thermoplastics (biodegradable polylactide), ABS (high strength), PETG (transparent), PA (elastic nylon) and their reinforced composites. A wide range of hardware solutions is considered: from simple pneumatic bench-top injectors for workshops and prototyping to precision laboratory-grade microinjectors for scientific research, autonomous recyclers with integrated grinding, extrusion and drying, as well as hybrid systems. Numerous examples of practical implementation are given - DIY projects of the open 3D printing community with the possibility of self-assembly, laboratory installations for studying material degradation, commercial bench-top solutions and startups, as well as semi-industrial prototypes for small-scale production. Key technological parameters are analyzed. A comparative analysis of portable and professional approaches revealed their strengths and weaknesses in terms of energy efficiency, cost, flexibility of use and limitations. Development prospects were discussed: hybrid complexes shredder + extruder + injector, sensor automation for monitoring parameters, integration with CAD systems for automatic mold design, development of biodegradable composites and artificial intelligence algorithms for mode optimization. The development of such machines creates the basis for Industry 4.0 in additive manufacturing, implementing the concept of closed cycles without the need for industrial infrastructure.