State of the Art of Additive Manufacturing and Techno-Economic Comparative Study of Different Mechanical 3D Printing Technologies

Abstract

This dissertation presents a structured study of additive manufacturing (AM) from both a technological and economic perspective. The first part reviews the development of AM technologies, focusing on the main processes, materials used and costs. This section establishes a foundation for evaluating the relevance of different AM techniques for industrial uses. The second part presents a comparative analysis of the seven established AM processes. The comparison is based on practical variables, including process complexity, material availability, setup requirements, maintenance demands, and suitability for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A cost and investment evaluation are also included to support realistic assessments of technology adoption in various real-world applications. The study results are presented in a series of comparative tables, a visual organizational chart and decision-making algorithms in order to assist with process selection based on functional needs. The outcomes of this work can support further development of a computer-based AM technology selection tool that serves as a reference for engineers, researchers, and businesses that rely on additive manufacturing technologies.