Methodological Framework and Process Selection
• Define Task Objectives and Constraints: Including accuracy, surface quality, mechanical properties, size and batch size, materials and cost, delivery cycle, etc., to determine the process route and equipment level.
• Mainstream Processes and Adaptation Points (understood according to ASTM classification):
• Material Extrusion (FDM/FFF): Filament extrusion, low cost, easy to use, suitable for prototype verification and functional prototypes; sensitive to sag and surface texture.
• Reduction Photopolymerization (SLA/DLP/LCD): Liquid resin curing, high resolution, smooth surface, suitable for precision parts and small mold masters.
• Powder Bed Fusion (SLS/SLM/EBM): Laser/electron beam melting of powder, high strength, one-piece molding of complex internal cavities, suitable for functional parts and metal parts.
• Binder Jetting: Powder + binder, fast forming, supports color and multiple materials, often combined with sintering/impregnation to improve strength. • Directed Energy Deposition (DED/LC/LENS): Coaxial feeding of filament/powder, suitable for additive repair and remanufacturing, and gradient materials.
• Sheet Lamination (LOM/UAM): Sheet stacking and bonding/ultrasonic consolidation, suitable for large appearance parts and low-cost rapid prototyping.
• Rapid Matching Recommendations:
• For ultra-high precision/smooth surface: SLA/DLP preferred;
• For structural strength/metal parts: SLM/EBM or DED preferred;
• For cost-effectiveness/rapid iteration: FDM preferred;
• For large size/color/sand molds: Consider bond jetting.
The above process family, flow, and scope of application all conform to the standard classification and general practices of additive manufacturing.
