The Institute of Information Technology of ANAS held an online scientific seminar on "The impact of 3D printing on production" of the 18th department.

Zulfiya Alakbarova, Chief Specialist of the Department, said that the term 3D printing covers many processes and technologies that offer a full range of parts and products for production in various materials. 3D printing is the process of making a physical object from a three-dimensional digital model.

Speaking about the rules of use of this technology, the speaker noted that after creating a digital 3D model of the object using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, the "print" button is pressed. A 3D scanner is used to copy digital models of existing objects. It is possible to create a 3D model with the help of 3D-based software, as well as to convert any physical object into a 3D model with the help of a 3D scanner.

Speaking about 3D printing and additional production, Z. Alakbarova said that production technologies are divided into 3 groups. He noted that these include subtractive, formative and additional production processes (3D printing).

“Additional production, also known as 3D printing, is a transformative approach to industrial production that allows you to create lighter, stronger parts and systems. The component consists of different layers. The process is usually bottom-up. Different processes are repeated one after another,” she added.

She noted that the materials used for the 3D printing industry include metals, polymers, ceramics, smart and special materials.

Z.Alakbarova also spoke about the types of this technology. She said that according to the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standard, 3D printing technologies are cataloged in 7 groups due to some differences. These include different construction mechanisms, price points, materials and different uses.

She noted that the latest industrial revolution, called Industry 4.0, means Internet of Things (IoT) and cyber-physical production based on services. Industry 4.0 incorporates developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing, big data, cloud technology, 3D printing and the Internet of Things. When all these areas come together and integrate into the physical and virtual worlds, it leads to the 4th industrial revolution. She added that the 3D printing industry includes the aerospace, automotive, food, healthcare, construction, fashion and electronics industries.

The speaker also noted that the use of this printing technology has the potential for prototyping, small-scale production, individualization, free design.

In the end, she spoke about the use of 3D printing technology in the fight against COVID-19, which affects the whole world. "During the current pandemic, we see that 3D printing has saved people from some difficulties in the fight against the COVID-19 virus. When we enter a new era with COVID-19, which continues to disrupt supply chains and lead to a lack of necessary medical equipment, 3D printing technologies come to our aid” Alakbarova added.

Discussions were held around the report, questions were answered.