Chapter 11 - Sustainability of 3D printing in industry 4.0: A brief review

Abstract

In the present era, there is an increase in attention to the customers’ desires and customization, due to the huge variation in customer demands. It has become a fundamental criterion to adapt manufacturing processes as well as present technologies in accordance with the customers’ needs. Industry 4.0 is the manifestation of the smart thinking approach in manufacturing environments that was first introduced by the Communication Promoters Group of the Industry-Science Research Alliance in 2011. It defines Industry 4.0 as the fourth industrial revolution, a new level of organization and control of whole value chains over the entire life cycle of products. In such a scenario, 3D printing provides an ideal technology for rapid prototyping with flexibility in creating complex designs, mass customization, that involves minimal waste. Herein, in the book chapter, we propose to present a brief review of the sustainability of 3D printing in industry 4.0. We will also discuss the cost, speed, accuracy, repeatability, and its potential for mass production. Alongside we will also discuss the role of decentralization of workloads among machines, quality, and strength. Finally, we will make a brief discussion on the history and evolution of 3D printing and its potential in industry 4.0.