“WORDS MAY INSPIRE BUT ACTION CREATES CHANGE, IF EVERYBODY ELSE SEEMS TO BE DOING IT IN ONE WAY, THERE MIGHT BE MORE OPPORTUNITY THE OTHER WAY“

What is Additive Manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing (AM) is the industrial production name for 3D printing, a computer-controlled process that creates three-dimensional objects by depositing materials, usually in layers.

The event was organized by Robotics and Automation Club (RAC)on August 14 from 4-5:30 pm. The session handler is Dr.B Senthilkumar (ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR MECHANICAL ENGINEERING). He shared his views and explained the uses of AM(3D Printing), around 55+ members gained knowledge about AM from this session. This enlightening session was started up with a welcome speech by Ms. Samritha S(20BEI038) and moved on to Mr.Abhishek M (19BMC048) where he gave an introduction to 3D printing and conducted a quick ice-breaking session on identifying the parts in 3D Printer. As the time moved the session was handed to the Chief Guest Dr.B Senthilkumar for his part.

Started with the introduction to Additive manufacturing (AM), by inspiring the naturally occurring object. Followed by, the history or timeline of the AM, as one must not forget history. Then we came to know the followings

Using computer-aided design (CAD) or 3D object scanners, additive manufacturing allows for the creation of objects with precise geometric shapes.

Why AM?

Similar to standard 3D printing, AM allows for the creation of bespoke parts with complex geometries and little wastage. Also, the cost of making them is low when compared to conventional manufacturing. Ideal for rapid prototyping, the digital process means that design alterations can be done quickly and efficiently during the manufacturing process. It takes very little time to come to market for sale.

In addition, parts that previously required assembly from multiple pieces can be fabricated as a single object which can provide improved strength and durability. AM can also be used to fabricate unique objects or replacement pieces where the original parts are no longer produced. Also, it is been Eco-Friendly to the environment

Working Process and Methods Used

First, a thin layer of powder material is added to a building platform. There, a powerful laser beam melts the powder precisely at certain points specified by the computer-generated design data. Next, the construction platform is lowered and another layer of powder is added. The material is melted once again, which connects it to the layer below at the specified points.

The printing time takes in a few factors, including the size of the part and the settings used for printing. The quality of the finished part is also important when determining printing time as higher quality items take longer to produce. He gave a simple briefing on different Methods of 3D Printing.

AM in Space

NASA has gone beyond experimenting with 3D printed parts and is adding an Additive Manufacturing Facility (AMF) on the International Space Station for both NASA and commercial purposes. This will be a permanent facility on the ISS, capable of producing parts out of a wide variety of thermo polymers. Using the AMF, parts, entire experiments, and tools can be created on-demand. It will enable the immediate repair of essential components, upgrades of existing hardware, and the installation of new hardware.

Risks in AM

If one came to design weapons and illegal components which leads to a huge risk. Also, During the initial scan/design stage, the design is vulnerable to outright theft. So, locking of the file to prevent its use, or corruption is to be followed.

The session went on well with an interactive mode where participants cleared their doubts regarding AM (3D Printing). Further, he concluded with his mindful thoughts and motivated the participants to learn more about 3D printing and its uses which is better than the original object with some exceptions.

At last, the session was concluded by Ms.Nithiyashree V K (20BAD026) with a Vote of Thanks.

“A design engineer who is able to approach design problems through an additive mindset will find an amazing level of design flexibility. Then, once designs are fleshed out, a business case study will highlight the right path to take from a design to manufacturing”

TO ACCESS THE RECORDED VIDEO OF THIS SESSION – CLICK HERE

https://web.microsoftstream.com/video/7567590c-cf13-4f2a-927b-ff7149d04084