ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
A DESIGN- DRIVEN PROCESS
Additive manufacturing is a transformative approach to industrial production enabling the creation of lighter , stronger parts and systems , with individual customisations .
“ Additive Manufacturing ( AM ) offers design flexibility , mass customisation , process sustainability and rapid product development .”
Metal additive manufacturing ( AM ) utilises molten metal to make a product , layer by layer . By using metal AM processes , a metal object can be manufactured in a very short span of time with little to no waste generation . It is a transformative approach to industrial production that enables the creation of lighter , stronger parts and systems . It can also bring digital flexibility and efficiency to manufacturing operations , making a real impact on profitability and environmental footprint .
Above : The laser sintering method . Right : Sandvik additive manufacturing .
The process is frequently used to produce customised products for a specific need , as well as for prototyping . Major players that operate in the global market have adopted key strategies such as partnerships , product launches , agreements and acquisitions to strengthen their market outreach and sustain stiff competition in the market . As AM continues to evolve , incumbents of several industries and industry verticals are opting for the process to enhance product design , ensure accuracy and reliability , and shorten the time to market . Additive Manufacturing ( AM ) is defined as the process of joining materials to make objects from
3D model data , usually layer upon layer , as opposed to subtractive manufacturing methodologies . It offers design flexibility , mass customisation , process
sustainability and rapid product development .
The term AM encompasses many technologies including subsets such as 3D Printing ; Rapid Prototyping ( RP ); Direct Digital Manufacturing ( DDM ); layered manufacturing and additive fabrication . The seven AM processes are VAT photopolymerisation ; binder jetting ; material extrusion ; powder bed fusion ; material jetting ; sheet lamination and Directed Energy Deposition ( DED ).
DMLS is one of the most advanced technologies . A powerful laser is used in 3D printing to fuse metals and alloys on a micro scale . The main applications of DMLS include the creation of metal parts of complex geometry . Right after the 3D printing process , the parts are fully functional ( heat-resistant , strong and durable ).
Design determines manufacturing
Additive manufacturing and / or laser sintering or laser melting can be used to manufacture , coat or repair components with extremely high material requirements . Compared with traditional , ablative manufacturing methods , such as turning or milling , in additive manufacturing the design determines manufacturing . This is why it is referred to as “ design for additive manufacturing ” ( DfAM ). “ AM marks an inflection point in manufacturing that allows previously impossible structures to be produced . If you can design it , you can