SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/eng-additive-layer-by-layer

What defining action makes a process additive manufacturing?

It builds a three-dimensional part layer by layer from a digital design.

Start playing free

  1. Adding material layer by layer ✔
  2. Removing chips with a cutter
  3. Hammering only solid billets

Why: Additive systems place or solidify material only where the digital model requires it. This can create internal features and complex shapes that are difficult to machine.

Huh, didn't know that: Additive manufacturing can use metals, polymers, or ceramics, depending on the process.

The dad joke
The printer built its reputation one layer at a time.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Adding material layer by layer. Additive systems place or solidify material only where the digital model requires it. This can create internal features and complex shapes that are difficult to machine.

  1. NIST: What Is Additive Manufacturing? www.nist.gov/additive-manufacturing/what-additive-manufacturing
    Additive manufacturing (AM) uses digital designs to fabricate three-dimensional products that are built up layer by layer.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

EngineeringHow many base units does the International System of Units (SI) have?EngineeringSince the SI redefinition voted in 2018, what defines the kilogram?EngineeringIn today's SI, how precisely is the value of the Planck constant known?

That's stuff everyone should know.