Rapid prototyping

Rapid Prototyping

Digital manufacturing process using additive and subtractive systems to quickly create physical models

Additive Systems

Manufacturing methods that build objects by adding material layer by layer (3D printing)

Subtractive Systems

Manufacturing methods that remove material from a solid block to achieve the desired shape

MJF (Multi Jet Fusion)

Additive technique that deposits a binding agent onto polyamide powder and uses UV radiation to create detailed and strong parts

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)

Additive technique that uses a UV laser to fuse polyamide powder into detailed parts

PolyJet

Additive technique that jets photopolymer droplets and cures them with UV light allowing high precision and multiple materials and colors

BinderJet

Additive technique that deposits a binding agent onto a powder bed without UV

DED (Directed Energy Deposition)

Additive technique that deposits and melts metal powder or wire using laser

LOM (Laminated Object Manufacturing)

Additive technique that builds objects from layers of paper

SDL (Selective Deposition Lamination)

Variant of LOM that enables full-color printing through selective deposition

Extrusion

Additive process where material is pushed through a nozzle to form layers

UV Photopolymerization

Additive process where liquid resins are hardened using ultraviolet light

Powder Bed

Additive method where layers of powder are selectively fused or bonded

Material Jetting

Additive process that deposits droplets of material directly onto the build area

Binder Jetting

Additive process that uses a binding agent to join powder particles

3D Printing

Additive manufacturing technology that creates three-dimensional objects from digital models

CNC (Computer Numerical Control)

Subtractive system that automates machine tools using digital instructions

Laser Cutting

Subtractive process that uses a laser beam to cut materials

Vinyl Cutting

Subtractive process that precisely cuts thin materials like vinyl

Cutting and Milling

Subtractive process that removes material using mechanical tools to shape parts