Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) has guided engineering design for over 50 years by focusing on functional requirements. However, the evolution of manufacturing techniques—from traditional machining to modern additive manufacturing (AM)—necessitates a critical reassessment of how we apply these principles. How often have we answered the question of tolerances with, “What’s the best we can make?” While this approach has worked in legacy manufacturing due to generations of experience flowing down to designers, it oversimplifies the nuances involved in designing for advanced technologies like 3D printing. Engineers often replicate legacy GD&T requirements for AM parts, believing this ensures equal performance than the baseline. However, these traditional strategies may not yield the best results for additive components. In this dynamic session, we aim to inspire a fundamental shift in mindset! Attendees will learn why abandoning the copy-paste mentality is crucial for unleashing the full potential of additive manufacturing. Through compelling case studies from the aerospace industry, we will showcase innovative GD&T strategies tailored for AM that enhance yield and performance. Additionally, we will introduce other techniques for achieving dimensional control, including simulation, pre-compensation, and post-processing. Participants will leave with practical tips and insights for setting GD&T requirements that fit the unique aspects of additive manufacturing. By combining design skills, GD&T fluency and manufacturing processes knowledge, we can create a smoother path to optimal design for additive manufacturing (DfAM). This approach encourages ongoing improvement and fosters a spirit of innovation in engineering design. Don't miss this opportunity to be at the forefront of these exciting developments—join us and elevate your understanding of GD&T for AM!
Learning Objectives:
Attendees will learn to embrace a proactive and innovative mindset that encourages the abandonment of copy-paste methodologies, fostering creativity and adaptability in GD&T practices for additive manufacturing.
Attendees will analyze and draw insights from compelling case studies in the aerospace industry, illustrating successful GD&T adaptations for additive manufacturing that participants can apply in their own work.
Participants will leave with actionable guidelines and rules of thumb for effectively determining GD&T requirements tailored to metal additive manufacturing, enhancing their design processes.
