3.4. Cost and Lead-Time Reduction

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does AM stand for?

   Hint

   Think of 3D printing.

2. 2.

   Name one benefit of using AM.

   Hint

   Consider how much it costs to make a prototype.

3. 3.

   What does AM help to significantly reduce in production?

   • A. Lead times
   • B. Overall quality
   • C. Waste quality
   • D. Production volume

   Hint

   Think about how quickly a part can be produced.

4. 4.

   True or False: AM produces large amounts of waste.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how traditional manufacturing affects material usage.

5. 5.

   Calculate the potential cost savings in a scenario where traditional manufacturing requires $100,000 in tooling, but AM can produce the same part for$25,000 with no tooling costs. What percentage cost saving does this represent?

   Hint

   Think about how much you save relative to the original cost.

6. 6.

   Discuss how AM can transform an inefficient supply chain in a fictional company that often runs out of stock, leading to lost sales. How could implementing AM change this dynamic?

   Hint

   Consider how demand can be matched directly with production using AM.