Page 4 - AO 1st Qt 2017 CL

3D Printing - Shi ing From Physical Risks to Risks
The ques on for most manufacturers today is not when to adopt 3D Prin ng, but how fast they can move to capitalize on its e ciencies. According to a PwC Survey of US manufacturers, two out
of three companies are already adop ng 3D prin ng in some form. A related PwC Study on 3D prin ng also revealed:
• Almost half of US manufacturers surveyed believe it is “likely” or “very likely” 3D prin ng will be used for low- volume, highly specialized products over the next 3 to 5 years
• 3D prin ng allows produc on of parts o en too di cult and complex to make through tradi onal manufacturing
processes
• New materials and printers will enable the prin ng of intelligent systems embedded with enhancements such as sensors, transistors and, microprocessors.
The number of materials available for use in 3D prin ng—also known as addi ve prin ng—has grown signi cantly from a limited number of plas cs to metals, ceramics, powders, and even food.
By now, we’ve all heard about 3D prin ng being used for customized prosthe cs or small industrial parts. But even large defense contractors are adop ng advanced manufacturing for military aircra because it can make the parts lighter, yielding signi cant fuel savings, among other bene ts.
3D prin ng o ers manufacturers an almost unlimited number of new market opportuni es. However, this “rush to market” excitement should also be balanced with responsible approaches.