Manufacturing Techniques
- Manufacturing techniques are essential in transforming raw materials into finished products.
- They can be organised into five main categories:
- Additive
- Subtractive (Wasting)
- Forming
- Joining
- Finishing
Additive Manufacturing
Definition
Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing involves techniques that build objects by adding material layer by layer.
Subtractive (Wasting) Manufacturing
Definition
Subtractive Manufacturing
Subtractive manufacturing uses techniques that shape components by removing material from a solid block.
Forming Techniques
Definition
Forming Techniques
Forming techniques are mechanical processes that reshape material without adding or removing it. Examples include extrusion, stamping, bending, and injection moulding.
Joining Techniques
Definition
Joining Techniques
Joining techniques are methods used to connect two similar or dissimilar materials together.
Finishing Techniques
Definition
Finishing Techniques
Finishing techniques are processes used to finalise a surface to allow bonding, improve aesthetics, or increase durability.
Selecting the Right Technique
| Factor | What It Means | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type & Properties | How the material behaves (hardness, ductility, melting point) affects what techniques can be used. | Metals may need forging; thermoplastics can be vacuum formed. |
| Quantity Required | The number of units impacts whether manual, batch, or mass production is best. | Prototypes may be 3D printed; high volumes may use injection moulding. |
| Complexity of Form | Complex shapes might require multi-part moulds, CNC machining, or layered builds. | A car body panel is pressed; a complex bracket might be machined. |
| Precision or Tolerance | Some parts require extremely accurate dimensions or finishes. | Aerospace components need tight tolerances, so CNC or EDM may be used. |
| Available Equipment/Facilities | The choice may be limited by what tools, machines, or skills are accessible. | School workshops may favour vacuum forming over industrial injection moulding. |
| Environmental Impact | Some methods waste more material or use more energy than others. | 3D printing creates less waste than subtractive milling. |
| Cost & Efficiency | Cheaper methods may be slower or less precise. High-setup-cost processes suit mass production. | Die casting is expensive to set up but cheap per unit in bulk. |
