Best 3D Printing Articles of 2019
2019 was a year of surprising developments and advanced processes that occurred with 3D printing and additive manufacturing.
December 31, 2019
2019 was an amazing year for 3D printing. We’ve seen the development of new materials as well as advances in the production capabilities in additive manufacturing. Here’s a quick look at the progress in 3D printing during 2019.
Additive Manufacturing Automation Brings Down Costs; Increases Productivity
(Image source: Digital Metal) |
This automation technology uses robotics for the most laborious manual step in metal additive manufacturing, which is de-powdering the system after printing. Previously, this step was done by humans using specially designed glove boxes for safety.
Breakthrough 3D Printed Materials Make Strong, Lightweight Structures
(Image source: ETH Zurich / Marc Day) |
New materials that take advantage of a new interior structure could be the way forward for new lightweight, strong materials for myriad uses.
LMD Additive Manufacturing Expands in Aerospace
(Source: Form Alloy) |
The 3D printing processes of laser metal deposition (LMD) and directed energy deposition (DED) are revolutionizing how the aerospace industry designs and builds high-value components across the manufacturing spectrum from prototyping to production.
Is 3D Printing Ready for Scaled Production?
(Source: Forecast 3D) |
While additive manufacturing has received attention for its promise of mass customization and generative design, not everyone believes it’s ready for large-quantity production.
Why 3D Printing Is Going to Need Blockchain
(Image source: Pixabay) |
Blockchain has the potential to solve 3D printing's inherent security risks before they become a major issue.
Biorefinery Waste Can Be Used for 3D Printing
(Image source: Oak Ridge National Laboratory) |
Researchers at the Department of Energy have used lignin, a byproduct of the biorefinery industry, as part of a new composite material that’s well-suited for 3D printing processes.
Using Light to Control Multimaterial 3D Printing
(Image source: A.J. Boydston and Johanna Schwartz) |
A new light-based technique developed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison allows for more than one material to be printed at a time.
The Untold Truths of 3D Printing You Need to Understand
(Image source: Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay) |
With all of the hype surrounding additive manufacturing and 3D printing, it's easy to forget that, as with all new technologies, there is a learning curve.