3D Printing 101 – Applications for AM

3D Printing 101: Applications for Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing, is the process of making three dimensional objects from a digital file. AM allows for quick automated and repeatable processes, making it easier to mass produce. AM is rapidly becoming more popular in multiple different industries today, such as: Aerospace/Department of Defense, Education, and the Medical sectors. These major industries are using AM in many different ways to maximize benefits from the technology.

Aerospace/Department of Defense

AM has played a major role in this field by creating parts with higher durability,  flexibility for complex designs, and generating substantial savings overall. Weight reduction has also been a huge factor, which saves on fuel and contributes to major cost savings for the Aerospace industry. “Boeing now has over 50,000 3D-printed components of various types flying on aircraft today” (Molitch-Hou). Boeing and several other large aerospace companies are implementing 3D printing technologies into their operations and are predicting major transformations with it in the coming years. The Air Force is also conducting developmental research and bringing in AM technology into their processes.

Education

3D printing usage in universities has provided students with the experience of utilizing this innovative technology. This allows students to learn how AM is revolutionizing manufacturing and the economy. It creates an environment for students of all fields of study to collaborate on ideas by using creative thinking and problem solving processes to create solutions. Youngstown State University uses all 7 of the different types of AM on its campus, and is one of the only universities in the United States to accomplish this milestone. YSU has over 40 desktop 3D printers as well as many industrial grade printers. AM in the Educational Services Sector is progressing quickly and we will more than likely see it implemented in more colleges throughout the US soon.

Medical

AM has made a major impact on the medical field and is altering the way we provide care to patients in several different ways. The manufacturing of medical devices, such as orthotic and prosthetics, is one of the largest applications of 3D printing the world is seeing today. Scan and print technologies will disrupt traditional supply chains, and allow manufacturers to improve their cash flows on average by 4 weeks.  Orthotics and prosthetics prices are dropping with the implementation of AM and creating huge cost savings due to time reduction and simplification of the creation process.

Due to the complexity and controversy behind 3D printing in the medical industry, it is still not fully being utilized. FDA regulations are still being developed and research is still being conducted to ensure risk is minimized for users of these medical devices.

3D printing allows for on-hand fabrication, mass customization, and free design complexity. It is a rapidly developing technology that is currently disrupting global manufacturing, and will soon mainstream in a way that will change our economy drastically.

Sources:

Molitch-Hou , Michael. “Boeing Talks 3D Printing for Aerospace <ENGINEERING.com>.”       Engineering.com, 16 Aug. 2017, www.engineering.com/3DPrinting/3DPrintingArticles/ArticleID/15475/Boeing-Talks-3D-Printing-for-Aerospace.aspx.