One of the fastest-growing developments in the world of technology has been that of 3D printing, which has already been heavily adopted in industries such as aerospace, automotive and industrial goods.
Case24.com
3D Printing Applications
Case24.com analysed findings from online 3D printing services provider Sculpteo, who surveyed 1,000 professionals from a range of industries to better understand how they are using 3D printing technology.
Case24.com MD Phillip Donker said: “3D printing has significantly evolved over the years, establishing itself as a ground-breaking piece of technology. Considering the technology is being harnessed in a large variety of sectors, it has become integral for firms consistently seeking to innovate and make efficiency gains in their production cycle.”
Case24 found that professionals are most commonly using 3D printing for prototyping (55%) as a rapid means of showcasing and acquiring feedback on design and functionality.
43% are applying printing to production process, and 41% believe it enables and augments proof of concept processes.
18% use 3D printing to produce valuable marketing samples, with 16% deploying 3D printing for artistic and educational purposes.
Just 10% consider 3D printing a hobby that they can experiment with.
Furthermore, Case24.com also sought to identify what the professionals’ thought were the biggest benefits of 3D printing technology.
Complex geometries (48%) is the greatest benefit professionals have experienced from 3D printing.
39% reported 3D printing led to a fall in lead times, and 30% installing 3D printers for financial prudence. 3D printers can make models multiple times with just the materials required – decreasing turnaround times and unnecessary materials costs.
28% of experts believe 3D printing has benefitted engineering redesign functions whilst 22% consider 3D printing the primary attribute in streamlining assembly.
18% believe 3D printing has complemented their continuous improvement ideology.
Just 8% feel 3D printing has had a positive impact on their remote production capabilities. Just above, 9% cite the utilisation of 3D printers as an important factor in them successfully achieving supply chain optimisation.
