An Analytical Method for Assessing the Utility of Additive Manufacturing in an Organization
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ORIGINAL CONTRIBUTION
An Analytical Method for Assessing the Utility of Additive Manufacturing in an Organization Faladrum Sharma1 • Uday S. Dixit1
Received: 17 May 2020 / Accepted: 2 October 2020 The Institution of Engineers (India) 2020
Abstract Although the applications of additive manufacturing are continuously increasing, but unless used judiciously, it cannot compete with traditional manufacturing processes. This article presents an analytical method for assessing the utility of additive manufacturing. For this, the concept of utilization factor is introduced and its effect on the production planning and associated costs is discussed. The uncertainty in the estimation of utilization factor and costs is addressed by the fuzzy set-based theory. For applying fuzzy arithmetic, linear triangular fuzzy numbers are used based on expert’s most likely, lower and upper estimates. Consideration of uncertainty with the help of fuzzy arithmetic provides a better picture for management to take decision. Further, a fuzzy set-based technique has been employed to compare an additive manufacturing process viz., selective laser sintering (SLS) with another process viz., injection moulding. The overall methodology is illustrated through case studies. It is demonstrated that even for SLS process, the unit cost of a part decreases with the quantities of production, which is reflected in the enhancement of the utilization factor. However, for very high volume of production, the SLS process cannot compete with injection moulding in terms of cost as well as production time. Keywords 3D printing Cost estimation Fuzzy set Uncertainty Process selection Decision support
Introduction Additive manufacturing (AM) converts a digital computeraided design (CAD) model into a physical object by depositing raw material in a layer-by-layer manner. Initially, AM was capable of producing only prototypes. However, with further developments, it attained the capability to manufacture highly complex end-usable objects producing minimal waste. Due to several advantages offered by AM, its application has increased substantially over the years. Numerous industries are investing a huge amount of money for adopting this technology. There are several categories of AM processes, but all are popularly called 3D printing [1]. The term ‘3D printing’ is now the buzzword in technical discussions, brainstorming sessions and business meetings pertinent to the manufacturing sector. However, its adoption and effective utilization remain challenging tasks for an organization. There are certain constraints imposed by size restriction, material limitations, production time, cost and legal issues in adopting AM [2–4]. Hence, there is an apprehension about AM revolutionizing the manufacturing sector by replacing conventional manufacturing technologies. Before adopting a new technology, an organization wants to ensure the profit and sustainability by its adoption. In context to AM, an organization attempts to get answers to the following questions: 1. 2.
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