Learn about robotic
3D printing.

What is robotic 3D printing?

In robotic additive manufacturing, a robot positions a tool that deposits material layer by layer. The material, deposition process and toolpath shape what you can make. Not every large-format printer uses a robotic arm.

Different printing processes suit different materials and parts. Start with what your part needs to do, then compare printing with other ways to make it.

Is printing suitable for your part?

A piece of furniture, a mould, a component and a building element have different requirements. Use these questions to prepare a conversation with a specialist.

• What does the part need to do, and how large is it?
• Which material properties and surface finish matter?
• How will it be tested, finished and used?
• What could printing offer compared with your current process?

Compare processes and methods.

Ask other practitioners about materials, toolpaths or a production problem. Include your setup, what you tried and the results so they can give useful advice.