Additive Manufacturing

What is Additive Manufacturing?

Additive Manufacturing has become another technological advancement falling under advanced manufacturing solutions. The usage of additive manufacturing teamed with computer-aided design software and 3D printing has added digital flexibility and efficiency to manufacturing processes. Now that computer technology is developed to a higher level, additive manufacturing has become a revolutionary process, where there is no need for intermediate steps in the process as CAD software aids the journey saving cost and time.

If any of these challenges resonate with you or are areas of concern in your current manufacturing processes, Symetri can help you to make informed decisions as to the available solutions to suit your needs.

Products cannot be manufactured fast enough
Seeking an environmentally friendly process (reusable powder and process)
A lengthy manufacturing process to make fixtures and tooling
High manufacturing costs to make internal fixtures and tooling
Products ranges are failing because of strength and weight

Benefits of using Additive Manufacturing

Produce high quality, lightweight products in less time

Introduce the flexibility of custom-made products

Gain control of waste by refurbishment

Develop design by introducing hybrid techniques ts before production.

3D Printing

3D printing is a rapidly developing technology that has evolved over decades. Where the first 3D printers cost as much as a house or a car. Thankfully in the last decade, 3D printers and 3D printing technology has evolved and now printers are more affordable. Users can take full advantage of an ever-expanding manufacturing solution. Creating products using 3D printing means faster production times, low start-up costs, high standard customisation of complex geometry and quick turn-around using specialised materials.

Hybrid manufacturing

Hybrid manufacturing is a combination of subtractive and additive manufacturing solutions. Additive manufacturing is used to build products or structures and subtractive manufacturing is used as fabrication, polish and finishing.

Hybrid manufacturing offers more benefits to subtractive or additive alone. Additive manufacturing can be used to refurbish damaged or rework products adding material in specific areas. Subtractive manufacturing introduces CNC milling. It is possible to 3D print a part and finish it in one single set up. Reducing error as the part never leaves the machine.

Frequently asked Questions

Additive manufacturing is a process used to manufacture plastic and metal objects using a 3D printer.

Additive manufacturing works by using a CAD model to simulate the effects of a layer-by-layer framework that will solidify to become a finished object using a 3D printing machine.

It is cost-effective, immediate reduction on time to market, has fewer design constraints, lightweight structures and is energy and material efficient.

Autodesk has a selection of additive applications for your needs. Recently Autodesk has rebranded to create Fusion 360 with Netfabb, if you require more information then please contact the Symetri make team.