Course Overview
This course introduces the fundamentals of additive manufacturing (3D printing), including key technologies, materials, and industry applications. Students will learn how different 3D printing processes work and how they are used in sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, and product design. The course builds a strong foundation in additive manufacturing workflows, terminology, and best practices. By the end, learners will be able to evaluate when and how to use 3D printing for prototyping and production.
Prerequisite(s)
- Basic understanding of engineering fundamentals (e.g., mechanical design, materials, or manufacturing processes) and familiarity with 3D CAD modelling software (such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or equivalent).
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain fundamental principles of additive manufacturing (3D printing) technologies and processes.
- Differentiate between major additive manufacturing methods (e.g., material extrusion, powder bed fusion, vat photopolymerization).
- Identify and compare materials used in additive manufacturing, including polymers, metals, and composites.
- Describe common applications of additive manufacturing across industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and product design.
- Interpret additive manufacturing workflows, including CAD file preparation, STL file generation, and slicing methods.
- Evaluate CAD compatibility issues in additive manufacturing, including file formats, geometry errors, and data conversion challenges.
- Demonstrate basic proficiency in preparing and exporting CAD and STL files for 3D printing.
- Explain the role of slicing software and key parameters (layer height, infill, supports) in print quality and performance.
- Assess the economic considerations of additive manufacturing, including cost, material usage, production time, and scalability.
- Describe the role of numerical methods and simulation basics in additive manufacturing processes (e.g., toolpath generation, thermal considerations).
- Evaluate the advantages and limitations of additive manufacturing compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
- Apply safety considerations and best practices when working with additive manufacturing equipment.
Effective as of Fall 2026
Related Programs
Introduction to Additive Manufacturing (ItAM) (AMFG 4100) is offered as a part of the following programs:
School of Energy
- Applied Additive Manufacturing
Microcredential Part-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.