Formative Fabrication
Forming processes make use of stresses like compression, tension, shear, or some combination to cause the plastic deformation of a material into a desired shape. This manufacturing process is typically for plastics and metals. No material is added or subtracted in this process. The workpiece is only deformed or displaced. Linear materials such as steel […]
Subtractive Fabrication
In subtractive manufacturing 3D objects are made by consecutively cutting material away from a fixed material body until a desired form is achieved. Unwanted materials are removed by cutting, drilling, or milling. Subtractive processes are inherently more wasteful than additive processes. It is possible to create objects with tighter tolerances and better finishes using subtractive […]
Additive Fabrication
“Additive fabrication” refers to computer controlled build processes where materials are deposited in layers and aggregated to construct three dimensional objects. Three dimensional design data (often generated as a digital model) is used to drive 3D printers which deposit plastics, clay, powders, or some forms of metal. Many fabrication methods create objects through the removal […]