Review of 3D printing technology

Abstract

The usage of 3D printing is an emerging manufacturing process with huge potential in the future. With the capability to produce components of complex geometries, intrinsic designs and fast prototyping within a relative short time frame, it has been widely received by many sectors in the industries. This report gives a comprehensive review of some of the conventional 3D printing techniques, materials, post processing and process mechanisms. In addition, some of the main challenges of processing with anisotropy, void formation, layer bonding and appearance were discussed. The importance of kinetic modelling with some parameter estimation techniques, factors affecting cure reactions and process variables were discussed. Overall, this report gives an overview of 3D printing along with some drawbacks for future research and development.