3-D Printing Grows Beyond Its Novelty Roots

For 3-D printing, whose origins stretch back to the 1980s, the technology, economic and investment trends may finally be falling into place for the industry's commercial breakout, according to manufacturing experts, business executives and investors. From a report: They say 3-D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is no longer a novelty technology for a few consumer and industrial products, or for making prototype design concepts. 'It is now a technology that is beginning to deliver industrial-grade product quality and printing in volume,' said Jorg Bromberger, a manufacturing expert at McKinsey & Company. He is the lead author of a recent report by the consulting firm titled, 'The Mainstreaming of Additive Manufacturing.'

3-D printing refers to making something from the ground up, one layer at a time. Computer-guided laser beams melt powders of metal, plastic or composite material to create the layers. In traditional 'subtractive' manufacturing, a block of metal, for example, is cast and then a part is carved down into shape with machine tools. In recent years, some companies have used additive technology to make specialized parts. General Electric relies on 3-D printing to make fuel nozzles for jet engines, Stryker makes spinal implants and Adidas prints latticed soles for high-end running shoes. Dental implants and teeth-straightening devices are 3-D printed. During the Covid-19 pandemic, 3-D printers produced emergency supplies of face shields and ventilator parts.

Today, experts say, the potential is far broader than a relative handful of niche products. The 3-D printing market is expected to triple to nearly $45 billion worldwide by 2026, according to a report by Hubs, a marketplace for manufacturing services. The Biden administration is looking to 3-D printing to help lead a resurgence of American manufacturing. Additive technology will be one of 'the foundations of modern manufacturing in the 21st century,' along with robotics and artificial intelligence, said Elisabeth Reynolds, special assistant to the president for manufacturing and economic development.

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