The term 3D printing refers to the creation of a solid object based on information in a digital file. It is also known as additive manufacturing (AM): a term that sets a contrast with traditional manufacturing, which is 'subtractive', noted Chris Dent, head of research and technology for Lockheed Martin UK. Manufacturers conventionally start with a block of metal or plastic and machine away material until they are left with the piece that they want, Dent explained. However, in AM manufacturers create or 'print' the parts they need, substantially cutting back on wastage.
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