A review of additive manufacturing technology and its application to foundry in China

The application of additive manufacturing technology is one the main approaches to achieving rapid casting. Additive can directly prepare casting molds (cores) with no need patterns, and quickly cast complex castings. combination traditional break constraint technology, improve flexibility, ameliorate working environment. Besides, promotes realization “free casting”, greatly simplifying processing procedures shortening cycle. This paper summarizes basic principle its development situation domestically overseas, mainly focusing on status several technologies applicable foundry field, including three-dimensional printing, selective laser sintering, stereolithography, layered extrusion forming, etc. Finally, future trend in field prospected.