【3D Printing News】5 Major Global 3D Printing Advantages
Modern 3D printing is slower than mass plastic injection molding, but why is the usage of 3D printing still increasing year by year? Because it can be widely applied to small-batch production and meet various needs, it has gradually become a new manufacturing method. According to Gartner's research last year, 38% of companies are already using 3D printing, and 47% of companies will adopt 3D printing within two years, making it an indispensable player in the new industrial revolution.
Solving the Outsourcing Predicament
Historically, companies outsourced models and products to traditional manufacturers, and both parties bore the impact and risks caused by each other, such as communication and coordination issues, production limitations, raw materials, logistics, and delivery deadlines. In contrast, 3D printing can provide a complete process from design to in-house production. Traditional manufacturing methods often encounter challenges such as long production times, high inventory pressure, and unstable initial product sales. Small-batch 3D printing, in addition to producing only after receiving orders, also allows for fixed costs.
(Image: "Snow Business" uses an Ultimaker 3D printer to print "snow machine nozzles")
Reduce 5 Types of Costs
1. Shipping CostsMicro-factories in small spaces reduce shipping costs and time for outsourced models and products.
2. Warehousing
Spare parts inventory typically occupies over 20% of warehouse space. For example, each car model requires about 10 years' worth of spare parts; using 3D printing allows for production only after an order is received, zero inventory, and no waste.
3. Mold Making
Traditional mold manufacturing adopts a quantity-based pricing model, while small-batch 3D printing uses inexpensive materials and has a low price per individual item, effectively saving on mold costs.
4. Waste Disposal
Unlike subtractive manufacturing (e.g., CNC milling, stamping), additive manufacturing with 3D printing does not produce excess waste.
5. Labor
Design is completed, and production starts immediately, saving on personnel communication and proofreading, and allowing for network transmission to all branches.
Shorten Product Cycles
Traditional prototyping takes weeks or more, while most 3D printing can be completed within hours. Not only are the equipment compact and low-cost, but multiple machines can also print simultaneously, eliminating the complex process of traditional mold making. 3D printing is more flexible and agile.Meet Demand
Small-batch 3D printing can break through various limitations of traditional production. In addition to meeting demands for free geometry and special structures, derivative designs generated through parametric systems can also be realized. For example, the image shows that SLS laser powder sintering technology, because it uses powder stacking, does not require support structures to 3D print hollow structures, making it very suitable for prototypes with complex structures. Different material options are also available to meet various needs, such as high hardness, high elasticity, etc. 
Product Differentiation
When the industry supply and demand market is saturated, "product differentiation" is more likely to attract customers. For example, 3D printed wearables, or customized phone cases, parts, etc., can be modified at any time according to customer preferences, increasing customer loyalty.
3D printing is gradually becoming the preferred choice for small-batch manufacturing. It's easy to use, materials are inexpensive, and the equipment is compact, allowing for a complete production line in a small space. It overcomes various challenges in manufacturing, providing a more time-saving, labor-saving, and cost-effective manufacturing method. We will continue to share new information and practical tests related to 3D printing. All the latest news will be published on our Facebook page!
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