Introduction to Additive Manufacturing

Flashcards on Additive Manufacturing

What is the ASTM definition of Additive Manufacturing (AM)?

Process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer, as opposed to subtractive manufacturing methodologies such as traditional machining.

What approach do all commercialized AM machines use?

A layer-based approach.

How are parts made in Additive Manufacturing?

By adding material in layers; each layer is a thin cross-section of the part derived from the original CAD data.

What is a typical layer thickness in Additive Manufacturing?

Approximately 0.05 – 0.15 mm

What are the primary differences between commercialized AM machines?

Materials that can be used, how the layers are created, and how the layers are bonded to each other.

What factors are determined by the differences in AM machines?

Accuracy of the final part, material properties, mechanical properties, how quickly the part can be made, how much post-processing is required, size of the AM machine used, and overall cost of the machine and process.

What is the first step in the general AM process flow?

Creating a 3D CAD model.

What is the function of solid modeling?

Creates solid 3D models as if they are actual parts and can intersect, join and subtract objects from one another to create the desired part.

What is a key advantage of solid modeling?

It is usually parametric, meaning that changes, or parameters are saved at every stage of the modeling processes and can be edited at any time during the design.

What is the primary use of surface modeling?

For more aesthetic features of a product.

What is the second step in the general AM process flow?

Exporting STL conversion.

What is the function of STL file format?

Stores information about your 3D model and is the most commonly used file type in 3D printing. Represents a 3D model by approximating its outer surfaces using multiple triangles that create a 3D network (mesh).

What happens when you increase the resolution of an STL file?

More triangles will be used, approximating the surfaces of the 3D model better, but also increasing the size of the STL file.

What is the third step in the general AM process flow?

Slicing.

What is the function of a slicer software?

Takes your digital STL file and turn it into a language that your 3D printer can comprehend; cuts the object in many horizontal layers and produces a path a printhead can follow – line by line, layer by layer.

What type of file does the slicer software generate?

A G-code file that‘s tailored for the machine you’re using.