3D metal printing: a brief SWOT analysis

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyze 3D-printing from various viewpoints and to determine its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore comprehensive information dealing with it has been thoroughly studied. The results were compiled in a brief SWOT – analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats); they are based on the dynamic development of 3D-printing technologies, the literature analysis includes the papers that were published not more than five years ago. The formulation of the problem includes an introduction and contains the development and relevance of metal 3D-printing technologies. The main material contains the theoretical foundations, where the terms «Additive Manufacturing», «3D-printing» are defined. Moreover, the basic principles and the proceedings order are presented. Thereby, the selective laser sintering (SLS), direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), and the selective laser melting (SLM) as a selection of different manufacturing techniques have been described and discussed. The work briefly represents the main metal materials and includes a comprehensive analysis. The possibilities, problems and risks of 3D-printing technology are presented. One of the main problems is porosity. It can result from the 3D-printing process itself or even from the powder used in the process. These microscopic holes reduce the overall density of the part and can result in cracks and fatigue. Besides, a forecast for the development of 3D-printing is described. The conclusion summing up the most important results declares that the specific characteristics of the parts and the wide range of applications of 3D-printing technology are to change whole industries in the foreseeable future. For companies as well as for countries it is particularly important to foreknow it and to manage to adapt themselves for the current development of 3D-printing in order to avoid losing their market position