Implementation of Additive Manufacturing Technology

Background: Manufacturing sectors are focusing on developing new manufacturing strategies and improving technologies since there has been a decrease in productivity in recent times. This has led to a massive growth in AM but also due to the benefits of implementing AM technologies. However, there are some challenges to overcome with AM implementation. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the AM implementation to achieve sustainability in manufacturing companies. Research questions: · What are the challenges in achieving sustainability with AM implementation for manufacturing companies? · How can manufacturing companies achieve environmental and economic sustainability with AM implementation through an industrial technology center? Method: This study is based on a qualitative method with an abductive approach. The theoretical framework has been gathered through a literature review and the empirical data is based on interviews at the case company. The analysis is based on a thematic analysis method. Conclusion: This thesis concluded that challenges in achieving sustainability with AM implementation are related to inaccuracies of produced parts and components and geometric complications. This was based on design complexities and printer capabilities. The other conclusion made was that there are aspects that contribute to environmental and economic sustainability through AM implementation such as enhancing process efficiency and low setup costs.