Additive Manufacturing: what is and how Europe will revolutionize manufacturing processes and capabilities through the Integradde project
Differing from traditional “subtractive” metal manufacturing processes — which start with a solid block or piece of metal and then subtract raw material to form component parts — “additive” manufacturing creates materials from scratch by adding material through an Industrial 3D printer.
With the transition from analog to digital, designers are using data computer-aided design software and 3D object scanners to render their drawings into “useful” pieces of information. Essentially, the software directs hardware to deposit materials layer-by-layer, until the designer’s vision is realized.
While additive manufacturing is increasingly used in the aerospace and automotive industries, it is also found within the public sector, most notably in healthcare and energy.
Additive manufacturing: ISO reference standards
Additive manufacturing assumes one of seven forms (ISO/ASTM Source).
- Vat Polymerization: This technique allows for the creation of three-dimensional objects by solidifying photosensitive resins through UV emissions.
- Material Jetting: Hundreds of microdroplets are deposited through a print head, and then solidify to form layers.
- Binder Jetting: From a printing platform, a powder material is applied with a roller while its head…
