While automated processes and algorithms are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the field of 3D printing, human interaction remains invaluable for leveraging creativity, addressing complex challenges, and ensuring the successful integration of 3D printing technology into various industries and domains.

The main advantage of 3D printing over traditional manufacturing is the ability to iterate quickly and cheaply. This makes the technology revolutionary in its ability to spur innovation. For a long time, 3D printing was best used for prototyping parts. Now, there are new durable and functional materials hitting the market nearly every day.

For various reasons, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are not always the best source for replacement parts. A growing number of people and companies are looking to 3D printing as a way to replicate parts that they otherwise would struggle to procure. This is especially true in the automotive, construction, and hardware technology industries.

Like other tech companies and startups, additive manufacturing – aka 3D printing – benefited greatly from an influx of capital in 2020-2021. Over the past two years, several 3D printing companies have gone public, raised large funding rounds, been acquired, or merged with other companies in an effort to further scale their businesses. However, the recent decline in valuations of public 3D printing companies is raising some questions about the market potential of the technology.

Anyone who is creating a physical product should be familiar with the difference between Proof of Concept, Prototype, and Minimum Viable Product. One of the most cost-effective and time-saving ways to create and iterate hardware products is through 3D printing.

As daily users of a variety of 3D printing technologies, we want to share our list of the three best innovative 3D printers for beginners in business. These might not be the best printers for children and/or hobbyists, but if you’re looking to use your 3D printer as a way to generate income, look no further than these three machines.

Recently, a client came to us wanting to reverse engineer and 3D print an automotive trim clip for certain models of Mercedes-Benz’s. The original injection molded parts are no longer being produced yet there are still car enthusiasts that need them for restoration purposes.

While there are some clear near-term drawbacks to 3D printing structures, much can and will be improved or eliminated through continued innovation. The speed at which buildings can be erected using far less manual labor clears two major drawbacks of conventional construction. Beyond 3D printing concrete structures, there are still plenty of other existing applications for the technology within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.

We live in a world that demands affordable products on a rapid timeline. We are also increasingly seeing more demand for sustainably produced products. It is difficult to reconcile these two seemingly contradictory requirements. However, additive processes such as 3D printing are offering up resource-saving solutions that are changing the game. Here are some of the ways 3D printing can help make production more sustainable.

If you’ve ever inquired about how much it would cost to 3D print a part, you know that it can be difficult to predict what you’ll be quoted. That’s because there are several factors that go into determining the price, some of which have a small impact and others that have a bigger impact.