Investigation of energy requirements and environmental performance for additive manufacturing processes

Abstract

This paper explores the specific energy consumption (SEC) and environmental impacts for typical additive manufacturing processes. Also, the paper examines the possibility that ensure the product quality while reducing energy consumption with experimental analysis. The results show that (1) the SEC of additive manufacturing processes is related not only to material characteristics but also to the process input parameters; (2) it is possible to increase the energy efficiency without reducing product quality by adjusting the process rate or selecting different materials; and (3) the global warming potential (GWP) result of AM processes indicates that the GWP is brought about principally by the energy production process. The information provided by this project can also be of benefit to life cycle assessment and other environmental impact assessment related to AM processes.