3D printing: the dawn of a new era in manufacturing?

Author(s):

Robert Bogue (Associate Editor, Assembly Automation )

Abstract:

Purpose

– This article aims to provide an introduction to 3D printing technology and its applications.

Design/methodology/approach

– Following an introduction, this first describes the many different 3D printing technologies and then discusses a number of existing and emerging applications. Finally, brief conclusions are drawn.

Findings

– This shows that 3D printing technologies have evolved rapidly in recent years and can be use with a wide range of different materials. In addition to rapid prototyping, the dominant use in the past, they are now being used in all manner of manufacturing applications in a diversity of industries. In the future 3D printing may change the way many products are developed and produced and herald an era of “personal manufacturing”.

Originality/value

– This article provides a timely review of 3D printing technology and its applications.

Keywords:

3D printing, Additive manufacturing, Applications, Printing industry, Manufacturing systems, Additives

Publisher:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright:

© Emerald Group Publishing Limited 2013
Published by Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Citation:

Robert Bogue, (2013) "3D printing: the dawn of a new era in manufacturing?", Assembly Automation, Vol. 33 Issue: 4, pp.307-311, https://doi.org/10.1108/AA-06-2013-055

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