A comparison of traditional manufacturing vs additive manufacturing, the best method for the job

TLDR

Manufacturing seeks lower cost, energy efficiency, and expanded capability, prompting interest in additive manufacturing—an evolving technology since the 1960s that offers novel techniques—while traditional subtractive methods remain established and quality‑assured. The paper reviews how additive manufacturing can compete with or augment traditional manufacturing. The comparison examines similarities, differences, advantages, and disadvantages of AM versus SM in terms of economic and quality management. Literature shows AM can fit into established manufacturing regions for both low‑ and high‑volume production.

Abstract

Manufacturing industries and investors are always seeking to improve techniques to lower cost, energy and expand their capability. Additive manufacturing, started in the 1960s, has since had a rapid and continuous growth, bringing to light novel techniques to expand manufacturing capability and reinvent the wheel. At this stage, research and industry interest lie in determining where AM can replace or create new manufacturing systems. Traditional manufacturing refers to subtractive and long-established manufacturing methods, quality assured and implemented in the commercial space. This paper reviews the capability of AM and its current development to compete or add to established traditional manufacturing regions. Literature reveals the capability of AM to fit into established manufacturing regions for low and high production volume products. The paper comparison focuses on the similarities, differences, advantages and disadvantages found in AM vs SM studying the economic and quality management status of the industry today.