From its initial conception, 3D printing has had the potential to completely transform how goods are manufactured. But e
From its initial conception, 3D printing has had the potential to completely transform how goods are manufactured. But even 20 years after 3D printing was introduced, manufacturers must address diverse challenges. In our exploration of the current realities in this arena, 303 professionals responsible for 3D printing at manufacturing companies were surveyed.
? ?
?
? HOW MANUFACTURERS USE 3D PRINTING 81%
USE 3D PRINTING
3D PRINTING IS COMMON BUT EXTENT OF USE IS LIMITED
33%
36%
70%
Production Parts
Prototyping
Tooling & Fixtures
28%
16%
5%
Repair
Bridge Production
Other
MATERIALS USED IN 3D PRINTING
81%
34%
32%
Composites
Plastics/Polymers
8%
Metals
Ceramics
3D PRINTING USE IS GROWING DRAMATICALLY STAKEHOLDERS EXPECT SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH
23%
Increase 5X or more
40%
Increase 2X or more
85%
30%
Increase Somewhat
OF MANUFACTURERS WANT TO BE THE FIRST FOLLOWER IN THEIR INDUSTRY TO ADOPT 3D PRINTING DIFFERENT ROLES EXPECT TO AT LEAST DOUBLE THEIR 3D PRINTING USE
Executives
Team Managers
78%
Individual Contributors
64%
52%
WHO CHAMPIONS THE ADOPTION OF 3D PRINTING?
70%
Engineering & Development
13%
29%
50%
Production & Manufacturing
Operations
Procurement
12%
Brand
TRANSFORMING MANUFACTURING WITH 3D PRINTING
88%
PARTICIPANTS FROM NORTH AMERICA BELIEVE 3D PRINTING WILL INCREASE OPPORTUNITIES TO ON-SHORE, RATHER THAN OFF-SHORE
91%
SAY 3D PRINTING CHANGED OR WILL CHANGE THE WAY WE THINK AND OPERATE
TOP SIX BENEFITS OF 3D PRINTING
TOP SIX CHALLENGES OF 3D PRINTING No in-house expertise
Faster time to market of new ideas
Cost of system equipment
Innovation in product design and performance
Cost of materials
Speed production times
Part quality
Increased customization and personalization
Limited selection of materials
Design freedom
Technology limitations
Cost reduction
PRODUCTION USING 3D PRINTING INDUSTRIES UTILIZING 3D PRINTING FOR PRODUCTION PARTS INCLUDE:
41% Medical 35% Aerospace
93%
29% Electronics 23% Tooling 19% Automotive
REPORT THEY EXPECT TO USE 3D PRINTING FOR PRODUCTION PARTS IN THE NEXT 3-5 YEARS