What benefit does additive manufacturing have in terms of sustainability?

Additive manufacturing contributes to sustainability primarily by allowing for the creation of lightweight structures using less material. This process, often referred to as "3D printing," enables manufacturers to build parts layer by layer, which greatly reduces excess waste compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing techniques that cut away material from a solid block. The ability to optimize material use not only minimizes waste but also often results in designs that utilize materials more efficiently, achieving similar or better performance with reduced mass.

Additionally, the lightweight nature of parts produced by additive manufacturing can lead to energy savings in applications such as transportation, where lighter components can reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency. As industries focus more on sustainability, the capability to design and manufacture components that are both effective and environmentally considerate is key, highlighting the importance of this benefit in the context of modern manufacturing practices.