Additive Manufacturing
Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing involves techniques that build objects by adding material layer by layer.
The most common form of additive manufacturing is 3D printing, used to produce prototypes, tools, and even end-use parts.
Common 3D Printing Techniques
- Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM)
- Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
- Stereolithography (SLA)
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM)
Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM)
LOM is a system that slices a 3D CAD model into thin layers, then cuts each layer from material using a laser or plotter cutter. The layers are glued together in order to form a 3D model.
How it works:
- Material Layering: Sheets of material (usually paper, plastic, or metal) are layered one on top of the other.
- Bonding: Each layer is bonded to the previous one using heat and pressure.
- Cutting: A laser or blade cuts the desired shape from each layer.
- Stacking: The process repeats until the object is complete.
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Cost-Effective: Uses inexpensive materials like paper. | Surface Finish: Rougher compared to other methods. |
| Large-Scale Production: Suitable for creating large objects. | Material Limitations: Limited to sheet-based materials. |
| Minimal Waste: Excess material can often be reused. | Complexity: Less suitable for intricate designs. |
LOM is often used for prototyping and architectural models, where cost and speed are prioritised over surface finish.
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is a 3D printing method that builds models by depositing melted material in layers onto a bed.
How it works:
- Material Extrusion: A spool of thermoplastic filament is fed into a heated nozzle.
- Layer Deposition: The nozzle moves along the X, Y, and Z axes, depositing material in precise layers.
- Cooling and Solidification: The material cools and solidifies, forming the object.
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Wide Material Range: Supports materials like PLA, ABS, and PETG. | Surface Finish: Visible layer lines may require post-processing. |
| Accessibility: Widely available and affordable for hobbyists and professionals. | Strength: Layer adhesion can be a weak point in some designs. |
| Versatility: Suitable for prototyping, functional parts, and educational purposes. | Speed: Slower compared to other methods for complex geometries. |
