Post-processing in additive manufacturing: Requirements, theories, and methods

Abstract

3D printing has always been seen as a promising technology for creating small, low-quality prototypes. 3D printing involves adding components layer by layer using only raw material and energy source, which is more economical and efficient with materials than cutting a shape from a larger block or pouring molten material into a mold. The commercial market of metal-based additive manufacturing (AM) methods is still dominated by powder bed fusion and directed energy deposition methods. A significant improvement in the overall mechanical and microstructural characteristics of AM products has already been seen after thermal processing. Surface roughness in AM components is dependent on a variety of interrelated factors, including material feedstock, part design, process type, and process parameters. Porosity is a common process-induced AM defect that can be seen in even the best-optimized AM structures.