Comparative study of foundry patterns created using conventional methods and additive manufacturing

Pattern is a very vital tool in the foundry industry, and the traditional method of pattern creation using wood or metal working tools is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to quality variations. This study explores additive manufacturing (3d-printing) as an effective alternative to the conventional pattern making process. Two patterns design were fabricated using 3d printing (Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technology) and conventional process and they were compared in terms of their dimensional accuracy, lead time, and cost investment. The result showed that the patterns produced using additive manufacturing have higher dimensional accuracy, lower costs and lead-times, suggesting that the integration of additive manufacturing into the foundry industry could substantially improve production efficiency and quality.