ABSTRACT
Additive manufacturing or three-dimensional printing is controlled material addition, implemented by successively depositing layers of material until a predesigned shape is formed. The aerospace industry expects to derive values from additive manufacturing have been identified, which are: reduction of lead times, reduction of component weight, reduction of production and operational costs, and reduction of the negative environmental impacts of production. In aerospace manufacturing research, there is the desire to drive down the cost and weight of aircraft and to improve economy and design aesthetics. There also remains a requirement to adhere to stringent Federal Aviation Administration regulatory and compliance standards. The introduction of a turnkey solution to manufacturing coupled with a growing freedom of use forms the basis of the concerns raised. Issues discussed include regulation gaps in manufacturing, loopholes in safety and national security, and the need for curbing those problems that can be contained, or otherwise adapting to the eventualities that lie beyond control.
