Comparing additive manufacturing processes for distributed manufacturing

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) has been considered for distributed manufacturing. However, the consideration has usually concerned AM in general, not specific AM processes. This paper will look at the properties of different processes for distributed manufacturing from the perspective of the AM process and materials, post-processing, the requirements for devices and spaces, and raw materials. The findings show that powder bed fusion and binder jetting pose challenges for distributed manufacturing. The material extrusion process (MEX) can be affordable in a distributed form. It would be the ideal option when the demand for parts is low. VAT photopolymerization has similarities to MEX but is slightly more expensive and has a more demanding post-processing phase. However, it can be scaled up for higher production rates when demand is higher.