Analysis of Energy Utilization in 3D Printing Processes

Manufacturing paradigm is shifting from production-centric to service-oriented to meet emerging requirements, such as highly customized products and public “green” awareness. 3D printing, using a layered production mechanism, becomes a featured technology worldwide. This is attributed directly to its ability to efficiently fabricate complex and on-demand product. In this paper, energy consumption of 3D printing processes is focused and analyzed in the context of environmental impact. A preliminary study is conducted on a 3D printing process, where energy is divided into two parts, primary and secondary energy. Energy models were then proposed for each part, providing a fundamental approach for energy estimation and optimization, and subsequently, improving actual production settings and supporting 3D printing product re-design. The findings reported in this research, form an important knowledge piece, which complements life cycle assessment of 3D printing processes.