The 3D printing survey
In a recent survey, PWC and the Manufacturing Institute, have confirmed that 3D printing is transforming the U.S industrial landscape across many different supply chains. 3D printers are now being increasingly adopted not only in product design (i.e. rapid prototyping) but in production of complex components and parts.
Surveying over 100 manufacturers in the PWC report 3-D printing and the new shape of industrial manufacturing, 67% of respondents are either testing the benefits that come with additive manufacturing or are using it for production purposes. Moreover, 25% stated they have plans to 3D print items within their supply chains.
Industrial 3D printing for rapid prototyping in the product development cycle is not new but as it enters production settings, it will undoubtedly cause disruption to traditional processes and suppliers. New opportunities will arise for businesses to cut cost or gain flexibility.
The survey goes onto say that a quarter of those companies surveyed are using 3D printing in a traditional manner for rapid prototyping but 10% are now making components or parts for downstream assemblies. Only 1% of manufacturers at this point are making fully finished articles using 3D printers.
3D printing is still mainly used for rapid prototyping but experimenting for production is increasing
Supply chain disruption
The report points out that a key opportunity exists in the use of additive manufacturing for replacement of parts in high value items. It also provides an effective means to reduce costs in R&D by improving cycle times, where items can be made and tested at much greater speed. The prospect of increasing added value through customisation presents another major opportunity.
Some 70% of manufacturing respondents believe that in the next 3-5 years, the technology will be used for making obsolete components, whilst 50% believe 3D printing will be used for production of after-sale products.
3DP disruption to the supply chain is greater than the threat to intellectual property
Barriers to adoption
When questioned as to ‘what are the major concerns or barriers’, nearly half responded that there is still uncertainty about the quality of finished items. Both in terms of performance, safety, regulation, etc.
As importantly, some 45% of the manufacturers believe there will be a skills shortage. There are just not enough people capable of creating the 3D designs in-house for example. The final concern for those asked, regarded intellectual property protection as an issue and the potential for unrestrained copying and piracy.
Means Of Production
A significant question for many manufacturers is that if the supply chain is shortened, then more production will take place nearer to the point of demand. In effect, distances are reduced in the context of time and cost. Indeed, the technology has the potential to impact economies via the means of production.
Karl Marx would probably have had something to say about 3D-printing