Ranganathan, R: Rapid Manufacturing

Rapid Manufacturing (RM), a newly emerging manufacturing technology projected to provide supply chain benefits. However, there is a lack of information detailing its expected benefits in the supply chain. This work establishes the benefits and difficulties of RM in supply chain along with an indication of the possible changes required to sustain. With the parameters are many, the focus of the study is on identifying how RM would improve customization, reduce lead-time and inventory. Application of RM is explored in various supply chain structures. A performance analysis using a decision- analysis tool kit is undertaken and products are grouped according to the criteria suitable for RM. The suitability of RM in the supply chain is carried out via a case study. Results show that RM is suitable for application in various supply chain structures; it provides a new dimension in customising products as well as reducing inventory and lead-time. However, the full effectiveness of RM is entirely dependent on the supply chain structure adopted. Hence, some changes required to sustain RM as a future potential manufacturing system are suggested.