Metal additively versus conventionally manufactured structures – An environmental life cycle assessment

Abstract The use of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) in conjunction with topology optimisation enables the production structural components significantly higher strength‐to‐weight ratios than conventional components. However, owing to additional stages involved WAAM ( e.g . welding), a common question arises regarding environmental impacts using produce relative fabrication techniques hot‐rolling.) A cradle‐to‐gate life cycle assessment is conducted herein compare performance hot‐rolled I‐section steel beam that topologically optimised beam, latter having 53% lower mass former. With regards climate change, it demonstrated that, for typical deposition rate 2 kg/h, can lead CO ‐eq. emissions hot‐rolling if offer reductions at least ∼50%. contribution individual processes analysed, demonstrating shielding gas greatest contributor change impact production.