What is additive manufacturing? Definition and examples

Additive manufacturing (AM) is the process of joining materials to make three-dimensional objects from three-dimensional (3D) model data. AM involves adding layer upon layer until the product is completed.

We can also use the terms freeform manufacturing, additive processes, additive techniques, and additive layer manufacturing. 3D printing is one form of AM. However, many people use it as a complete synonym.

Markforged.com has the following definition of ‘additive manufacturing’:

“The term additive manufacturing refers to the process of fabricating physical 3D objects by extruding material, layer-by-layer, to form the desired shapes.”

“Within the industry, additive manufacturing will typically always refer to 3D printing. However, 3D printing is technically a subset of additive manufacturing, which includes a few other non-3D printing methods of manufacturing.”

Additive Manufacturing and Subtractive Manufacturing image

Subtractive manufacturing ‘removes stuff’ until you have made the product. Additive manufacturing ‘adds stuff’ until you have made the product.

Additive manufacturing vs. subtractive manufacturing

The adjective ‘additive‘ means ‘tending to or able to add.’ If a process is additive, it means that it is adding things.

The adjective ‘subtractive,’ on the other hand, means ‘tending to or able to remove or subtract.’ A subtractive process is one that is removing or taking away things.

Subtractive manufacturing

Subtractive manufacturing is the traditional way of making things. You start with a large block of something, and gradually cut away bits of it until you have the desired object.

We also call this process ‘machining.’ Machining involves hollowing, cutting, or taking parts out of a block of something. It could be a block of, for example, plastic or metal.

Additive manufacturing

AM means creating 3D objects by starting with nothing and adding one superfine layer at a time. 3D printing is one type of AM.

Over the past few decades, AM technology has advanced considerably. 3D printers today, for example, can create jet engine turbines, spare parts for vehicles, and even whole houses.

Additive manufacturing – seven categories

According to Loughborough University in the UK, there are seven categories of additive manufacturing:

  • Vat Photopolymerization.
  • Directed Energy Deposition.
  • Binder Jetting.
  • Material Jetting.
  • Power Bed Fusion.
  • Material Extrusion.
  • Sheet Lamination.

Individual processes vary depending on the machine technology and material the manufacturer uses.