Additive Manufacturing
"Adding To"
Another technological advancement made possible by the transition from analog to digital processes. In recent decades, communications, imaging, architecture and engineering have all undergone their own digital revolutions. Now, AM can bring digital flexibility and efficiency to manufacturing operations.
Additive manufacturing uses data computer-aided-design (CAD) software or 3D object scanners to direct hardware to deposit material, layer upon layer, in precise geometric shapes. As its name implies, additive manufacturing adds material to create an object. By contrast, when you create an object by traditional means, it is often necessary to remove material through milling, machining, carving, shaping or other means.
Although the terms "3D printing" and "rapid prototyping" are casually used to discuss additive manufacturing, each process is actually a subset of additive manufacturing.
While additive manufacturing seems new to many, it has actually been around for several decades. In the right applications, additive manufacturing delivers a perfect trifecta of improved performance, complex geometries and simplified fabrication. As a result, opportunities abound for those who actively embrace additive manufacturing.
Additive manufacturing processes
Powder Bed Fusion - DMLS, SLS, SLM, MJF
Powder Bed Fusion - DMLS, SLS, SLM, MJF
Powder Bed Fusion - DMLS, SLS, SLM, MJF
Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) is a 3D printing method that joins powdered material point by point using an energy source, typically a laser beam or an electron beam. It is one of the most common 3D printing techniques used for industrial additive manufacturing (AM). PBF is possible with both metals and polymers, although not all materials are compatible.
Binder Jetting
Powder Bed Fusion - DMLS, SLS, SLM, MJF
Powder Bed Fusion - DMLS, SLS, SLM, MJF
Binder Jetting (BJ) is an additive manufacturing process in which an industrial printhead selectively deposits a liquid binding agent onto a thin layer of powder particles — foundry sand, ceramics, metal or composites — to build high-value and one-of-a-kind parts and tooling. Similar to printing on sheets of paper, the process is repeated layer by layer, using a map from a digital design file, until the object is complete.
Material Extrusion / FFM
Powder Bed Fusion - DMLS, SLS, SLM, MJF
Material Extrusion / FFM
Material extrusion / FFM is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that deposits a continuous filament of composite or thermoplastic material to build 3D parts layer by layer. The filament is fed from a spool through a heated extruding nozzle, which heats the material and deposits it onto a build platform. .