Course Learning Objectives:

  • Covers the essential topics of Additive Manufacturing (AM) that is applicable to business and government.
  • Provides fundamental-level information of the background, benefits, workflow, applications, materials and processes associated with 3D printing.
  • Demonstrates how AM has transformed the manufacturing process into a promising technology by assessing its industrial and economic impact.
  • Comprehend when AM and conventional manufacturing are appropriate through AM business case development.

Course Topics:

  • Module 1 Introduction to Additive Manufacturing (AM)
    AM definition, AM history, 3D printing vs. traditional manufacturing, AM workflow, applications of AM, 3D printing materials, 3D printing processes, emerging/advanced AM technologies.
  • Module 2 AM Business & Economics
    Impact of AM on the global supply chain, influence of cost-effective AM systems, future of AM, the economics of AM, AM business case development, AM example parts, case studies- Traditional Manufacturing Vs Additive Manufacturing, ROI calculator.
  • Module 3 Qualification Overview
    Approach to qualification, installation qualification (IQ), operational qualification (OQ), process qualification (PQ), equivalency.

Course Outcomes:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Define 3D printing.
  • Distinguish between 3D printing and conventional manufacturing process.
  • List the various materials and processes compatible with AM machines.
  • Describe the capabilities of a 3D printing machine.
  • Ascertain a suitable AM technology that is applicable to a specific application.
  • Predict the future of AM by leveraging digital engineering tools.
  • Comprehend the economic/business aspects of AM and take appropriate decisions.
  • Evaluate the suitability of AM versus traditional manufacturing methods via AM business model steps.
  • Understand qualification for AM.