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.

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.

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.

Before you can “press print” on a 3D printer, you must first have a digital 3D model of your part(s). 3D models can come in a variety of CAD file types that can be opened and edited in 3D modeling software. One of the most common discussions we have with clients is what types of 3D model files we need for quoting and 3D printing parts.

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.

Prototyping is the iterative process used by product designers to create new parts and inventions, and it's also what 3D printing is most well-known for. However, 3D printing is also extremely important to the restoration and recreation of old and existing parts. Thanks to the help of 3D scanning technology, architects, engineers, scientists, doctors, historians, archaeologists, and beyond are now able to create near-perfect 3D printed replicas of almost anything. Existing and emerging 3D technology is working hard to preserve history and in some cases, save lives.

Choosing the right 3D printing material can be a conundrum, but the choice can be made easier by asking yourself a couple simple questions. Once you know exactly what you want your part to do and withstand, you’ll be able to choose the perfect 3D printing material for your project.

Could you be 3D printing? The technology is sometimes viewed as a process that’s exceedingly futuristic, technical, and niche. As a result, many people shy away from considering its applications for themselves or their business. This article presents 10 real-world applications of 3D printing across various industries.