Additivemenetelmä

Additivemenetelmä, commonly known as additive manufacturing or 3D printing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by layering material from a digital design. Unlike subtractive manufacturing, which removes material from a larger piece, additive methods build objects layer by layer. This technique allows for the creation of complex geometries and customized parts that might be difficult or impossible to produce with traditional manufacturing methods.

The process typically begins with a digital 3D model, often created using CAD software. This model is then sliced into thin horizontal layers, which serve as instructions for the additive manufacturing machine. Various technologies exist, including fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), and material jetting. Each technology utilizes different materials, such as plastics, metals, ceramics, or composites, and employs different methods for depositing or solidifying them to form each layer.

Additive manufacturing finds applications across numerous industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. It is used for rapid prototyping, creating functional end-use parts, producing customized medical implants, and even for complex tooling. The ability to produce on-demand and reduce material waste are significant advantages of this manufacturing approach.