Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
3D Printing Explained…
3D printing is sometimes referred to as
additive manufacturing
, as parts are built up by
adding layers of material on top of each other. This is in contrast to subtractive manufactur-
ing processes where material is removed, like milling and turning.
One of the key advantages of 3D Printing is the ability to quickly produce components. As
such, 3D printing during product development is sometimes referred to as
rapid prototyp-
ing.
For final production parts, it can be described as
rapid manufacturing.
There are a number of different 3D printing technologies which we'll look at in a moment.
They all have their pros and cons depending on what you want to achieve. However they are
all based on the same idea of building up a component by layering material.
