It's Time to Take Advantage of 3D Printing

Over the last decade, awareness of the value of AM has grown significantly within the manufacturing community, explains Rajeev Kulkarni, VP, Strategy, 3D Systems. The AM industry has made a dramatic transition – moving from being used primarily for prototyping to production solutions. AM is now considered a step within the manufacturing process and is part of multiple manufacturing workflows, says Kulkarni. We have seen evidence of this in the most recent E&Y study that confirms the adoption of additive is ramping – moving from the researching and prototyping phase to production – with nearly 75% of companies embracing the technology. This adoption has been facilitated by a combination of innovations – not only in printing technologies, but also in materials science. As the technology has continued to mature, the focus has moved from feeds and speeds to applications and materials, indicating a level of comfort across the growing customer base. Kulkarni tells IndustryWeek, the latest materials in-market possess mechanical properties that enable creation of durable, end-use parts. We will see materials innovation accelerate - continuing to open up new applications and solutions, he says.