In a world where technology is constantly advancing, the 3D printing industry has the potential to change both lives and manufacturing dramatically.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing technology could potentially reshape the manufacturing world in ways never before imaginable. This up and coming technology continues to advance rapidly, with its uses spreading across various different industries. By using melted filaments, most often plastic, 3D printers are able to convert 3D designs into physical objects in just a short time through the use of rapid prototyping. Its capabilities only continue to grow, as more and more industries are finding use for this revolutionary technology.

What Can 3D Printers Print?

From prosthetics to firearms to toys, 3D printing can be utilized to develop objects in a wide range of industries. In the medical field, custom prosthetics are easily produced for those in need. 3D printed parts are even used in operations. A Dutch woman, for example, actually had a portion of her skull replaced with a 3D printed part. Cars are able to be 3D printed which provides an incredibly innovative way to model new designs. Various other things such as jewelry, cake icing and Barbie dolls can be 3D printing, smoothing out the designs incredibly.

A 3D Printed Car

The Advantages of 3D Printing

Its ability to make highly accurate models in an extremely cost- and price-efficient manor are perhaps the greatest upside to 3D printing. Because it only uses the exact materials needed for the 3D computer model, 3D printing also wastes little. Although the printers themselves are expensive, there are 3D printing services for hire who will create the 3D scans for companies and then print the model creating with 3D printing software. The ability to create genuinely unique and fully customized products are another cool benefit of the technology.

So What’s the Downside?

With every great thing comes some minor flaws. 3D printing only has the ability to print each physical part in one color, so if you’re looking to use a variety of colors, you’d have to print each individual part with the desired color and then join them together. Pricing on 3D printers is another issue, with high end printers costing tens of thousands of dollars. Because of this, many companies utilize the 3D printing services provided through different 3D printer suppliers.