An Investigation of the Capability Profile of the Three Dimensional Printing Process with an Emphasis on the Achievable Accuracy

A benchmark procedure has been designed to assess the dimensional as well as the geometric accuracy of currently one of the most widely used rapid prototyping processes - the Three Dimensional Printing. It tests not only linear accuracy but also precision, and repeatability of the process, as well as its ability to create manufacturing features such as fillets and draft angles. The presented research results reflect the necessity to adequately respond to engineering requirements for clearly meeting dimensional and geometric tolerances and root on several in-house case studies proving the comparison with established high-end RP processes.