What removable AM components fortify an AM part as it is built?

Support structures are critical in the additive manufacturing process, especially for parts with complex geometries. As an AM part is constructed, support structures provide the necessary stability and assist in maintaining the correct shape while the part is being built. They help prevent deformation, sagging, or collapse during the layer-by-layer deposition process.

Once the part has been fully developed, these support structures can be removed, allowing for the final shape and surface finish of the part to be revealed without any additional impact on its integrity. While other components like bonding agents and core materials play important roles in the manufacturing process, they do not serve in the same supportive capacity during the actual building phase as support structures do. Thus, support structures are essential for maintaining the quality of the part during production.