Build Rate
Definition
Build rate quantifies how quickly an additive manufacturing process can produce material, typically expressed as volume per hour (cm³/h) or mass per hour (kg/h). It varies dramatically between AM processes and is a key factor in cost and lead time calculations.
Details
Comparative build rates:
| Process | Typical Build Rate |
|---|---|
| WAAM | 1-10 kg/h (highest) |
| LMD (powder) | 0.1-1 kg/h |
| EBM | 50-100 cm³/h |
| DMLS/SLM | 5-30 cm³/h |
Higher build rates generally correlate with lower resolution and surface finish quality, creating a fundamental trade-off in AM process selection.
Related Terms
Category: AM Parameters