The global 3D printing marketing scale is expected to increase from USD 13.7 billion in 2020 to USD 63.5 billion in 2026. And 3D printing is just one of many different types of manufacturing processes in use today.

In fact, there are mainly five manufacturing processes and four main methods.

Read on to learn about the differences in the various manufacturing processes and the methods used to facilitate them.

Processing workshops are often small workshops that mass produce products for customers. Batches are usually small and can be very customized. The settings change frequently, so the output speed is slower.

Larger manufacturers usually use workshops for specific or customized parts. If the related items do not require large-scale or standardized production, the processing workshop is the right choice.

Repetitive manufacturing uses assembly lines and relies on continuity and speed. Once the production line is set up for a particular project, it can continue to run that project at a substantial rate.

This is preferred for items that are in constant demand, such as certain auto parts, electronic parts, and other consumer products.

Careful manufacturing is similar to repetitive manufacturing because they all use assembly lines. However, for prudent manufacturing, project settings are frequently changed. These changes may be due to newer models or newer components being available.

There are two types of process manufacturing: batch and continuous processing.

Batch processing is a combination of discreet manufacturing and processing workshops. Through batch processing, the machine is set to a specific batch order. After the order is completed, the equipment will be cleaned and often left in need of the next batch or receive a new order.

Continuous processing is very different from batch processing and is more similar to repetitive manufacturing. As the name suggests, continuous processing is usually a 24/7 process. However, the raw materials involved are usually gases, liquids or powders.

3D printing is the latest form of manufacturing and a rapidly expanding field. With the invention of the home 3D printer, this method is quickly becoming a household name. The scale of the home version is still small, unable to compete with large manufacturing companies.

When using 3D printing, a printer filled with components such as metal or plastic will print an object layer on top of the layer. This will generate an actual project, not a simple ink picture.

3D printing has been widely used in many industries. For example, a car company can 3D print smaller prototypes of new models. This allows testing without having to build a model of actual size.

Many machining shops use 3D printers to print custom tools or parts that are difficult to manufacture.

Looking at the various manufacturing processes will reveal the most commonly used methods.

Machining means you use machines to make parts. The material normally used is metal, and the machine is removing the parts to form the required parts.

The connection is done by bolts, rivets or welding. Used when you need to connect a single part to form a new part. An example of connection was found in automobile manufacturing.

Forming is the bending and shaping of a metal plate to form a specific shape.

Casting is often used in tool manufacturing. This process produces the required tools by pouring molten metal into a mold, thereby forming an object into one piece. 

Do you know that the acceptable standard error rate in the manufacturing process is 10% to 30%? This error rate may prevent your company from becoming a real competitor in the manufacturing industry.

However, with a high 6 sigma rating, your company can be called a leader in the industry.

What is Six Sigma? How to apply it to quality management in manufacturing?

If you are a small business owner, the Six Sigma course will help improve the quality of your product development. The Six Sigma standard is a defect-free process, no matter what type of manufacturing your company is engaged in, it will elevate your company to a higher level of competition.

In a rapidly changing world, manufacturing is a highly competitive field. Whether your company is small (such as a processing shop), uses larger automation, or specializes in 3D printing, you need to understand the latest manufacturing processes.

Read similar articles on this website to keep your company up to date.

June Potter wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest growing freelance market in the United States. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelancers. Click here to visit the world's top freelancers.

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