The course gives a general introduction to Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D Printing, with a clear focus on how AM processes operate and what defines each process category. The module explains how components are built layer by layer across different technologies, outlining the core mechanisms that drive each process and the factors that influence precision, resolution, build speed, and overall process capability.
The content also covers typical process-related challenges, such as accuracy limits, support strategies, thermal effects, and surface quality. Students learn how AM processes differ in principle, performance, and applicability.
Coursework will emphasise the AM processes themselves, their operating principles, key parameters, comparative characteristics, and hands-on understanding of all major AM technologies:
(I) Vat photopolymerization (VPP): Stereolithography (SLA), Digital Light Processing (DLP), Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP), Volumetric Additive Manufacturing (VAM), Two-Photon Polymerization (2PP)
(II) Material jetting (MJT): PolyJet, NanoParticle Jetting (NPJ)
(III) Binder jetting (BJT): Powder-based 3D Printing (3DP), Metal Binder Jetting
(IV) Powder bed fusion (PBF): Laser Sintering (LS), Multi Jet Fusion (MJF), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Electron Beam Melting (EBM)
(V) Material extrusion (MEX): Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), Robocasting / Direct Ink Writing (DIW)
(VI) Directed energy deposition (DED): Directed Laser Deposition (DLD), Laser Engineering Net Shape (LENS)
(VII) Sheet lamination (SHL): Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM), Ultrasonic Additive Manufacturing (UAM)
A complementary course, ‘Introduction to Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) – Design and Materials’ will be offered in each winter semester. The combination of both modules provides a comprehensive understanding of the most relevant aspects of additive manufacturing (3D printing): processes, design and materials.
