Additive Manufacturing/ 3D Printing Using Composites
Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, has revolutionized composite production by enabling the layer-by-layer construction of intricate composite structures. In the realm of composites, additive manufacturing techniques allow for the creation of complex geometries with precise fiber orientations and resin distribution, optimizing material performance. This technology offers the flexibility to customize parts, reduce waste, and experiment with novel composite combinations. By depositing materials layer upon layer, additive manufacturing facilitates the production of lightweight, high-strength components tailored for specific applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, pushing the boundaries of what's achievable in composite design and fabrication.
ESSENTIAL READING
VIEW ALLMaterials & Processes: Fabrication methods
There are numerous methods for fabricating composite components. Selection of a method for a particular part, therefore, will depend on the materials, the part design and end-use or application. Here's a guide to selection.
Read MoreHow to validate 3D-printed composite part performance
Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) workflow simulates composite material performance to speed development, optimize performance and reduce costs for a redesigned 3D-printed CFRP bracket.
Read MoreContactless measurement of temperature, pressure in composites
Magnetic microwires enable contactless measurement of temperature and pressure during cure and in service.
WatchKnowledge Centers
This CW Tech Days event will explore the technologies, materials, and strategies that can help composites manufacturers become more sustainable.
LEARN MOREReview the state of the art in design, simulation, failure analysis, digital twins, virtual testing and virtual inspection.
LEARN MOREDuring CW Tech Days: Thermoplastics for Large Structures, experts explored the materials and processing technologies that are enabling the transition to large-part manufacturing.
LEARN MORELatest Additive Manufacturing News And Updates
Airtech, Caracol grow LFAM with Dalhtram resins, Heron AM pairing
New partnership will see Dahltram resins qualified for integration with Caracol’s Heron AM platform.
Read MoreMassivit, Sika to co-brand digital tooling materials for Massivit 10000 series
Strategic MOU initially introduces SikaBiresin CIM 120 and SikaBiresin CIM 80 to serve crucial composites market needs for 3D printing tooling, prototyping and more.
Read MoreBelotti to integrate hybrid BEAD system with Adaxis AdaOne software
Through this strategic collaboration, BEAD’s additive and subtractive capabilities for large-scale AM composite tooling production are made more accessible.
Read MoreCMS, Caracol collaboration targets large-format 3D printing market
Global development of LFAM technologies and applications will support end user’s adoption of 3D printing for composites.
Read MoreR&D projects, additively functionalized part demonstrate composites innovation
JEC World 2024: The DLR is presenting the EmpowerAX multi-curved shell demo part as a JEC Innovation Award winning innovation, in addition to results from other projects involving hydrogen tanks, wind and more.
WatchFiber-reinforced 3D printing material brings sustainability, versatility
JEC 2024: Xenia Materials is unveiling Xegreen 23-C20-3DP, a 100% recycled PET-G carbon fiber-reinforced material grade for high-performance additive manufacturing.
Read MoreFeatured Posts
Industrializing additive manufacturing in the defense/aerospace sector
GA-ASI demonstrates a path forward for the use of additive technologies for tooling, flight-qualified parts.
Read MoreThe next evolution in AFP
Automated fiber placement develops into more compact, flexible, modular and digitized systems with multi-material and process capabilities.
Read MoreMulti-material, self-sensing, 3D-printed scoliosis braces
Startup Fited and Brightlands Materials Center have developed a lighter weight, thinner CFRP corrective brace, including pressure sensors made from continuous carbon fibers.
WatchIncreased molding productivity via additive manufacturing
Companies in multiple segments turn to 3D printing for end-of-arm tools, fixtures for increased safety and functionality, lower cost and faster turnaround times.
Read MoreMold 3D printing helps automate composite bathtub, shower production
As part of its efforts to automate as much of its production process as it can, Lyons Industries acquired a Massivit 10000 additive manufacturing system to quickly produce high-performance molds and support fixtures.
WatchA new era for ceramic matrix composites
CMC is expanding, with new fiber production in Europe, faster processes and higher temperature materials enabling applications for industry, hypersonics and New Space.
Read MoreFAQ: Additive Manufacturing
What is additive manufacturing in composites?
Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, in composites involves the layer-by-layer deposition of composite materials, such as continuous fibers or chopped fibers within a matrix, to create complex parts or structures.
What types of additive manufacturing methods are used for composites?
Various methods are employed, including Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), Continuous Fiber 3D Printing (CFF), Binder Jetting, Directed Energy Deposition (DED), and others that selectively deposit materials to build composite parts.
What composite materials can be used in additive manufacturing?
Additive manufacturing processes can work with a range of composite materials, such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs), glass fiber composites, and even advanced materials like nanocomposites or hybrid composites.
What is Formnext Chicago?
Formnext Chicago is an industrial additive manufacturing expo taking place April 8-10, 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
Formnext Chicago is part of a series of Formnext events in the U.S. being produced by Mesago Messe Frankfurt, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, and Gardner Business Media (our publisher).
Here is the full lineup of Formnext events in North America:
- Formnext Forum Austin took place in August 2023 and will return to Texas in 2026.
- Additive Manufacturing Sector Powered by Formnext at IMTS in 2024
- Formnext Chicago in 2025
What are the advantages of additive manufacturing in composites?
Benefits include the ability to create complex geometries, lightweight structures, reduced material waste, customization, rapid prototyping, and the integration of functional features within parts.
Are there limitations to additive manufacturing in composites?
Challenges include limitations in scaling for large-scale production, post-processing requirements, ensuring consistent mechanical properties, and the need for advancements in material options.