Additive manufacturing processes
Present situation worldwide and in Switzerland
Additive manufacturing (AM) processes encompass the full scope of AM processes that are currently available or still in development, including various upstream and downstream processes that are necessary to produce ready-for-use components and products. Examples include powder-based technologies such as selective laser sintering (SLS) and selective laser melting (SLM) for plastic and metal parts, filament processing techniques such as fused deposition modelling (FDM) for plastics, and liquid- based technologies such as stereolithography (SLA). Examples of promising new processes that are still at development stage include the printing of metal parts using binder jetting (BJ), technologies for the additive production of large structures in the metre range, and new micro and nano applications.
An overarching trend is the industrialisation of additive manufacturing processes, meaning in particular their stronger automation and integration in conventional production process chains, the assurance of process and product quality, and the lowering of production costs. The implications of this trend should not be underestimated. Additively produced applications and parts have significant innovation potential, which must be implemented in a cost-effective and high-quality manner. Application- oriented examples that are relevant for Switzerland include the plastics industry, lightweight engineering (aviation and space sectors), mechanical engineering, medical technology and the turbine industry, i.e. fields that contribute to Switzerland’s prominent global standing when it comes to innovation.
Implications for Switzerland
Compared to other countries – especially Germany, the United Kingdom, the US and China – Switzerland has not been very active in promoting industry and research for the development of industrial AM processes. And yet the trend toward increased industrialisation is of great significance, as it calls for new ideas and know-how in the further development and implementation of technologies as well as innovative quality assurance concepts. These are fields that play to Switzerland’s traditional strengths. An opportunity to bring its competences to bear in a fast-growing market is given in the development of new AM technologies, the greater industrialisation of additive manufacturing and the qualification of AM technologies for specific applications. Switzerland can and should help bring additive manufacturing technologies to the next level in terms of quality and costs. Mastering these challenges will keep Swiss research and industry busy for the next five to eight years. In order to approach these tasks with success, it is crucial to ensure firm political commitment to promoting manufacturing technology in Switzerland, also setting up appropriate support structures, programmes and priorities.