Additive manufacturing (AM) is the process of joining materials to create three-dimensional objects from three-dimensional (3D) model data. AM is to add layer after layer until finished product.
We may also use the terms free-form manufacturing, additive process, additive technology and additive manufacturing. 3D printing is a form of AM. However, many people use it as a full synonym.
GE Additive, part of General Electric, has the following definition of the term:
“Additive manufacturing uses computer-aided design (CAD) software or 3D object scanners to direct the hardware into depositing material, layer by layer, into precise geometric shapes. ”
“As the name implies, additive manufacturing adds materials to create an object. In contrast, when you create an object using traditional methods, it is often necessary to remove the material by milling, machining, carving, shaping, or otherwise.
“Although the terms ‘3D printing’ and ‘rapid prototyping’ are used arbitrarily to discuss additive manufacturing, each process is actually a subset of additive manufacturing.”
Additive Manufacturing vs subtractive manufacturing
The adjective “additive” means “to tend or be able to add”. If a process is additive, that means it adds more stuff.
On the other hand, the adjective “minus” means “tends to or has the ability to cancel or subtract”. A subtraction process is one that deletes or discards things.
-
Subtractive manufacturing
Subtract manufacturing is the traditional way of production. You start with a large block of something and gradually cut its pieces until you have the desired object.
We also call this process “machining”. Machining is hollowing out, cutting, or removing parts of a block from an object. It can be a block, for example, of plastic or metal.
-
Additive manufacturing
AM stands for creating 3D objects from scratch and adding one superfine layer at a time. 3D printing is a kind of AM. Over the past few decades, AM technology has advanced significantly. For example, today’s 3D printers can create jet engine turbines, spare parts for vehicles, and even entire homes.
Additive manufacturing – seven types
According to Loughborough University in the UK, there are seven types of additive manufacturing:
- Photopolymerization in the tank.
- Direct energy deposits.
- adhesive jet.
- Material jet.
- Food fusion bed.
- material extrusion.
- Rolling plate.
The individual processes vary depending on the technology of the machine and the materials used by the manufacturer.
