Solid Freeform Fabrication (SFF) is a designation for a group of processes that produce three dimensional shapes from additive formation steps. SFF, also known as Rapid Prototyping (RP), does not implement any part-specific tooling. The three dimensional part is produced from a 3D representation devised in Computer Aided Modelling (CAD). This computer representation is a layer-by-layer slicing of the shape into consecutive two dimensional layers, which can then be fed to the control equipment to fabricate the part. SFF entails many different approaches to the method of fabrication. Stereolithography (SL), selective laser sintering (SLS), laminated object manufacturing (LOM), and fused deposition modelling (FDM) are a few examples that today have commercial machines applying these techniques. The largest impact SFF has had on manufacturing is enhancement of the prototype production process, cutting by orders of magnitude the time required to design, make, and iterate to final design a prototype. Much of the work to date has been performed with polymers; however, a large focus of research today is directed at fabricating ceramic, composite, and metal parts from SFF techniques. Another experimental push is in the tool and die arena, where researchers are attempting to cut out the mold step and form the desired tools and dies directly.

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