3d Printing Has A Reputation For Being A Greener Method Of...

3D printing has a reputation for being a greener method of manufacturing, then the conventional factory methods that, up until now, have traditionally been used. But that is not necessarily the case. There are heavily spammed myths that are used as a catalyst to speed up the ever growing industry that is 3D printing. 3D printing does not mean zero waste, there are many different types of 3D printers that all construct pieces in different ways. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) machines, a consumer favourite, print products by using technology methods, like a hot glue gun, with the control of XYZ co-ordinates. Inkjet 3D printers, lay down a polymeric ink and then UV light cures it layer by layer. FDM machines are an environmentalist’s†¦show more content†¦It is replacing machining for smaller runs (1 unit, 10 units, maybe 1,000 units).† (Faludi, 2013). 3D printing has a niche market in creating more specialist products on scale, but it could not feasibly compete with injection moulding when trying to produce small plastic cars etc. Faludi compared the three machines by carrying out a life-cycle assessment (LCA) of the two printers (FDM and inkjet) and the CNC mill. The LCA included the materials and manufacturing of the machines themselves, transportation, energy use, material in the final parts, material wasted, and the end-of-life disposal of the machines. The FDM printer was the winner. â€Å"It had half or less impact than the inkjet 3D printer, and around one-third less than the mill† (Faludi, 2013). The outcome of the study was the 3D printing can be cleaner and greener, when using the right type (FDM). The printers impacts came primarily from the electricity use; so if the electricity was sourced renewably, this factor could be made redundant. Markus Kayser in 2011 looked to an alternative manufacturing method that uses renewables. The project was called ‘The Solar Sinter’. Kayser explored the potential of desert manufacturing, where essential products for manufacturing occur in abundance. â€Å"In this experiment sunlight and sand are used as raw energy and material to produce glass objects using a 3D printing process, that combines natural energy and material with high-tech