Additive manufacturing for metals and superalloys

Additive manufacturing (AM), often referred to as 3D printing, builds objects by adding layer upon layer. This method of metal manufacturing is enabled using lasers, plasma arcs, electron beams, or other heat sources. AM has changed the landscape of metal production. Due to its unique benefits, investment in this process has been increasing rapidly all over the world, leading to a surge in research and development related to metal additive manufacturing in both industry and academia. The chapter will discuss the recent advances in additive manufacturing for metals and superalloys. It will cover various types of AM techniques for metals according to the standards, their current trends, opportunities, and limitations. Special attention will be paid to the classification of the processes, practical considerations, how accuracy and repeatability are essential for metal 3D printing, and the qualification procedures that are now used to ensure reliable AM metal products. Additionally, the chapter will look at the affordable and energy associated with metal AM methods and its potential future applications in different industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, medical, and consumer goods. Finally, conclusions will be drawn regarding the potential future of metal additive manufacturing and its implications.