What is additive manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing is defined as the process of creating a three-dimensional object by adding material layer by layer. This method contrasts with traditional manufacturing processes, which often involve subtracting material from a solid block. The layered approach allows for complex geometries and intricate designs that would be difficult, if not impossible, to achieve through traditional machining techniques.

In additive manufacturing, materials such as plastics, metals, and ceramics are deposited in successive layers, which are precisely controlled according to a digital model. This process not only enhances design flexibility but also reduces waste since material is only added where it is needed to create the final object. This characteristic makes additive manufacturing a groundbreaking technology in various fields, including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, allowing for rapid prototyping and custom part production.

The other choices describe processes or methods that do not pertain to the essence of additive manufacturing. For example, creating two-dimensional images or employing traditional machining techniques involves different manufacturing concepts that do not utilize the layer-by-layer approach fundamental to additive manufacturing.