3D Printing So What is It Called?

In general 3D printing is called 3D printing. But there are many other names or acronyms used for this technology.

So far I have seen:

  • Additive Manufacturing (AM) – as opposite to subtractive manufacturing (CNC and others)
  • Additive Fabrication (AF)
  • Rapid Prototyping (RP) – old term when the technology was mostly used to make.. well.. prototypes
  • Solid Freeform Fabrication (SFF)
  • Additive Layer Manufacturing (ALM)

I am not sure who thought of the term 3D printing. Personally I favor 3D printing simply because most people immediately have some sense on what it means.


Posted on July 30, 2011 by .
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