Additive Manufacturing for Sustainable Production: A Survey on Titanium Alloys

The high cost of manufacturing intricate machine components, as per high-profile engineering applications, has hindered the widespread adoption of titanium alloys. These alloys pose challenges in terms of geometrical qualities, energy consumption, and the risk of material failure. In contrast, additive manufacturing (AM) technology offers a more adaptable and superior alternative to traditional production methods, simplifying the fabrication of titanium. This article explores the potential of AM for long-term industrial manufacturing. It delineates the benefits it can bring to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies, enabling them to compete in high-end titanium/product manufacturing. It emphasizes the potential of additive manufacturing for metal production and the various processes that can replace existing manufacturing methods. The paper discusses the microstructure, characteristics, and economic advantages of titanium alloys produced from AM processes. The study examines the current knowledge regarding the challenges and prospects of AM-fabricated titanium-based alloys. As a result, it provides valuable insights and recommendations for academics and other individuals interested in researching and utilizing the metal AM method for producing/manufacturing components.