Additive manufacturing: the role of welding in this window of opportunity

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) can be considered as an evolution from rapid prototyping as it allows us to manufacture a component from a computer file (CAD 3D), though its applications extrapolate the production of prototypes. This technique involves the layered design of a component and subsequent welding deposition of the multilayer structure to produce parts without the need of moulds or other tools. Although AM is frequently associated with the use of high density processes, the need for higher competitiveness expanded its range of technologies to include arc welding processes. This article aims to summarize up-to-date information on AM, particularly involving arc welding processes. Emphasis is given on the challenges associated with the building up of components during multilayered deposition and on post-deposition procedures.

Keywords:

• Additive manufacturing rapid prototyping
• multilayer deposition
• arc processes

Notes

Selected from Soldagem & Inspeção 2014 19(2) 190–198.