3D Printers
Impacts and Implications
How does this thing work?
1. A design is manifested in a Computer-Aided Design program
2. A 3D printer reads the design and begins printing the object in layers, from the bottom up
3. The layers are then sprayed using either plastic, metal or ceramic materials (Hembrey, 2013)
4. The printer then either heats each layer to solidify it before continuing to the next layer, or it uses UV lights to cure the plastics (Hembrey, 2013)
Why Should I Care?
Businesses can begin manufacturing their own products as 3D printing is in many cases a cheaper alternative to production machines. This can reduce costs paid to suppliers higher up the value chain
Many manufacturing firms are highly dependent on labor. 3D Printing does not require an extensive labor force. This can further cut a firm’s costs
Firms can invest saved resources (see above) in other avenues of growth and innovation
The technology also gives firms the ability to print quick and cost efficient prototypes rather than rely on the traditional expensive machinery
However…
To get the most out of this technology, firms need to hire a CAD designer. CAD designers are expensive as their skillset is quite rare.
I still don't buy that anyone uses these things...
In the air
NASA used 3d printing to create a rocket engine injector, that was quicker to manufacture than traditional models
Boeing has used 3d printing to create air duct components, wire ducts and other small general parts for years
On the Ground
When constructing the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu, GM turned to 3d printing to create prototypes it could use to run tests on the vehicle quality
In your Dentist’s Office?
The dental prosthetics industry was boosted by its adoption of the technology. The rapid prototyping afforded by 3d printers lowered costs for manufacturers.
Other areas of healthcare are also benefitting. A British Inventor was recently able to 3d print a prosthetic arm. This type of arm would usually cost thousands of dollars, but the 3d printed version could be sold for just $600
Where will 3D Printers go from here?
Industry consultants project that the 3d printer market will grow at a rate of 20% per year
The healthcare industry will compromise much of the above mentioned growth. Dental application will continue growing and industry penetration is projected to reach 18% by 2016
Aerospace will account for similar growth figures. Revenue earned from this industry is projected to grow at a compound rate of 30% per year.
The “personal use” market, primarily made up of small business owners is the largest growing sector purchasing 3d printers. Projections for growth of consumption are as high as 100% per year
Stratasys, Inc. (NASDAQ:SSYS)
So what's Holding it Back?
Firms that supply 3d printers are locking buyers into purchasing the materials used to print from them. Firms feel that these materials are extremely expensive, offsetting many of the benefits firms would enjoy by buying the printers in the first place
What does Harvard think?
An article in the Harvard Business Review predicted the 3d printing will have several market implications.
- Goods will be produced closer to their point of purchase. This will decrease the sheer number of steps in a value chain, leading to lower prices
- Goods will be more customizable, as massive tweaks to production machines will no longer be necessary to alter products