IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CAPABILITY PROFILE OF 3-D PRINTING: AN UPDATE

Authors

  • Dimitar Marinov Dimitrov Stellenbosch University
  • Neal de Beer

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/25-2-779

Keywords:

3D Printing, Drop-on-Bed, Capability Profile

Abstract

Knowledge about the capabilities of a production system is an important issue. The three- dimensional (3-D) printing (drop-on-bed) process has become a well-established Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology. Initially intended for use mainly as a concept modeller, its scope of application has expanded to include, among others, fit and functional models, pattern-making for casting and moulding processes, rapid tooling, and medical and architectural models. This growth in applications has stimulated a reciprocal improvement in available materials and the technological capabilities of 3-D printing, such as accuracy, strength and elongation, surface finish, build time, and cost. These factors are of significance to users who want to control their processes better and to designers who want to define their expectations and determine their requirements. Thus this paper aims to provide a technical update, highlighting the influence level of different factors on a system’s capabilities. This paper uses the example of the ZPrinter 310 system from the Z Corporation, applies appropriate statistical techniques, and takes into consideration the latest material and machine developments, in order to report on the current improvements of the capability profile of this important process. 

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Author Biographies

Dimitar Marinov Dimitrov, Stellenbosch University

Department of Indiustrial Engineering, Chief Researcher, Head Laboratory for Rapidv Product Development

Neal de Beer

Department of Industrial Engineering

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Published

2014-08-21

How to Cite

Dimitrov, D. M., & de Beer, N. (2014). IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CAPABILITY PROFILE OF 3-D PRINTING: AN UPDATE. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 25(2), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.7166/25-2-779

Issue

Vol. 25 No. 2 (2014)

Section

Feature Articles

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