Survey shows rise in 3D printing use—and benefits, challenges of adopting the technology

A study released early this year about the use of 3D printing among manufacturing companies shows that a lot can change in 15 months.

The study, “Current State of Additive Materials and 3D Printing,” is a follow-up to a similar analysis conducted in late 2017. The results are based on an online survey of 308 individuals responsible for decisions around 3D printing at manufacturing companies.

“Our most recent research clearly demonstrates the upward trajectory of the popularity and application of additive manufacturing,” said the study’s publisher, Dimensional Research, and its sponsor, materials manufacturer Jabil. “Of course, there are still challenges to overcome, particularly when it comes to materials.”

Listed below are some key findings of the survey:

- All applications of AM except prototyping have risen.

- Thirty-nine percent expect their company’s use of 3D printing to increase substantially in the next two to five years, and 47 expect some increase.

- Currently, 61 percent use AM to produce at least 10 percent of their functional or end-use parts, compared to 36 percent for the 2017 study.

- The No. 1 reason companies don’t use 3D printing for production is because of materials issues (56 percent).

- The top two reasons for adopting AM are the ability to produce customized goods (50 percent) and deliver parts faster (50 percent).

- Seventy-four percent currently use polymers, but there is a large demand for better metal, ceramic, and glass materials.

Click here to read the full report.

Slide Show | 3 Images