Fundamentals of additive manufacturing technology and future outlooks

Additive manufacturing, often known as 3D printing, is a cutting-edge manufacturing technique that differs significantly from more conventional approaches. It has been a few years now, but additive manufacturing technology has generated a lot of hype and a lot of hope for the future. Many academics believe that advances in AM technology will be the next “great thing,” on par with the development of the internet, computers, and semiconductors. A wide range of processes and components have been enhanced in order to take advantage of its wide range of applications. Everyone has access to 3D printing facilities through additive manufacturing. In order to ensure long-term success, there needs to be technical improvement and financial outlook needs innovative growth. Due to an increase in both personal and industrial applications, AM has shown development in both areas. Despite this, the use of additive manufacturing technologies in poor nations is still in its infancy. Therefore, learning the basics of additive manufacturing technology is mandatory for the younger generation. Thus, in this chapter, the key parameters of additive manufacturing technology such as its evolution, needs, classification, and the technologies are described.