A Crash Course on Electron-Beam 3D Printing

Have you heard of electron-beam melting (EBM). A form of additive manufacturing, it’s become an increasingly popular manufacturing process. Like other forms of additive manufacturing, it involves the use of a machine to build complex objects layer by layer. EBM, … Read More

Compression Molding vs Injection Molding: What’s the Difference?

Molding is a common type of manufacturing process in which liquid material — typically plastic, rubber or other polymers — is added to a mold cavity to create a product or component. The raw material is usually heated, after which … Read More

What Is Multi-Material 3D Printing?

3D printing is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry. According to research cited by AMFG, the 3D printing materials market is projected to reach nearly a half-billion dollars by 2029. Using a 3D printer, manufacturing companies can build components and products layer … Read More

What is a Bill of Materials?

For every manufactured item from a spoon to a spacecraft there is a document known as a “blueprint”. Blueprints got their name from the ink color used in early document reproduction. If the blueprint is the birth certificate and life … Read More

5 Facts About Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)

Have you heard of fused filament fabrication (FFF)? Also known as filament freeform fabrication, it’s a popular 3D printing process that’s characterized by the use of a continuous plastic filament. It involves the use of a 3D printer that guides … Read More

3D Printing vs Additive Manufacturing: What’s the Difference?

Many people assume that the terms “3D printing” and “additive manufacturing” refer to the same manufacturing process of building objects by depositing layers of material. The two terms, in fact, have become synonymous with this manufacturing process. So, what’s the … Read More

Why Zinc Is Used in So Many Alloys

Featuring the atomic number 30, zinc is a bluish-silver metal that’s somewhat brittle at room temperature. While most people recognize zinc as an essential mineral — it boots the immune system and regulates metabolism — it’s also used in the … Read More