Foundations of Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

Additive manufacturing is transforming how we design and build physical products across industries. Understanding the fundamentals of 3D printing is essential for modern engineers, designers, and hobbyists looking to bring digital concepts to life. In this comprehensive text-only course, you will progress from understanding basic terminology to selecting appropriate materials and processes for specific manufacturing needs. You will learn to evaluate different additive technologies, analyze design constraints, and prepare digital models for successful production. What you'll learn: - Understand the core principles, history, and terminology of additive manufacturing - Compare different 3D printing technologies including FDM, SLA, and SLS - Select the right materials, from polymers to metals, for various engineering applications - Apply design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) principles to optimize part geometry - Identify post-processing techniques and quality control measures for finished parts - Analyze modern sustainability practices and industrial trends in 3D printing The course begins with foundational concepts and terminology before exploring specific printing technologies, material selection, design rules, and real-world industrial applications. Designed for beginners, engineers, product designers, and makers with no prior manufacturing experience. Start reading today to build a strong foundation in modern 3D printing technology.