Additive Manufacturing: the role of welding in this window of opportunity

Additive manufacturing (AM) can be considered an evolution from Rapid prototyping as it allows to manufacture a component from a computer file (CAD 3D) though its applications extrapolate the production of prototypes. This technique involves the layered design of a component and subsequent welding deposition of the multilayer structure to produce parts without the need for molds or other tools. Although AM is frequently associated with the use of high density processes the need for higher competitiveness expanded its range of technologies to include arc welding processes. This paper aims to summarize up-to-date information on AM, particularly involving arc welding processes. Emphasis is given on the challenges associated with the building-up of components during multilayered deposition and on post-deposition procedures.