Additive Manufacturing Technologies: 3D Printing, Rapid Prototyping, and Direct Digital Manufacturing

Description

This book covers in detail the various aspects of joining materials to form parts. A conceptual overview of rapid prototyping and layered manufacturing is given, beginning with the fundamentals so that readers can get up to speed quickly. Unusual and emerging applications such as micro-scale manufacturing, medical applications, aerospace, and rapid manufacturing are also discussed. This book provides a comprehensive overview of rapid prototyping technologies as well as support technologies such as software systems, vacuum casting, investment casting, plating, infiltration and other systems. This book also: Reflects recent developments and trends and adheres to the ASTM, SI, and other standards Includes chapters on automotive technology, aerospace technology and low-cost AM technologies Provides a broad range of technical questions to ensure comprehensive understanding of the concepts covered Review: Best deeply detailed overview of additive manufacturing available. - This is the most thorough discussion of industrial 3D printing I've seen in my 20 years in the business. Yes, there are a few statements that are out of date at three years post-publication but that is the case in any rapidly developing area of technology. The fundamentals and pros/cons are excellent, and I like how it includes 3D solid modeling, file preparation, developments in simulation software and post-processing requirements. The level is appropriate for engineers and others working in the field, as well as graduate students. The chemical and thermodynamic equations get deep, but are very useful for those involved in fine-tuning their AM applications. Some of the homework exercises would be beyond most undergraduates, but overall this is a book that has been much-needed. Review: Thorough Summary of 3D Printing Technologies - Comprehensive information on 3D printing, using various methods. Technical, but not impenetrable. Keep in mind that this information will age very quickly, given the quick evolution of 3D printing technologies, so some references to specific products and machines are already out-of-date. A worthy attempt to provide a snapshot of this technology at the time of publication. My hope is that the publisher and/or author can revise this book on an annual basis, so that it can remain current with the state of the art.