Discrete manufacturing is the top industry for 3D printing, according to a report by 3DSourced1. Discrete manufacturing is the production of distinct items, such as cars, airplanes, toys, furniture, and electronics. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by depositing layers of material on top of each other. 3D printing has many advantages over traditional manufacturing methods, such as reducing waste, increasing efficiency, enhancing quality, and enabling customization. In this article, we will explore how 3D printing is used in different sectors of discrete manufacturing, such as aerospace, automotive, robotics, and construction.
The aerospace industry is one of the pioneers and leaders in adopting 3D printing technology. 3D printing allows aerospace companies to create complex and lightweight parts that are difficult or impossible to make with conventional methods. For example, Boeing uses industrial 3D printing to make plane interior elements, such as ducts, vents, and hinges. NASA uses 3D printed elements in satellites and engines, such as the injector for the RS-25 rocket engine. 3D printing also enables faster prototyping and testing of new designs, as well as reducing the cost and time of production.
Automotive
The automotive industry is another major user of 3D printing technology. 3D printing offers many benefits for the automotive industry, such as improving performance, reducing weight, increasing fuel efficiency, and enhancing safety. 3D printing also allows for more customization and personalization of vehicles, as well as faster and cheaper prototyping and tooling. Some examples of automotive companies using 3D printing are Ford and Volkswagen. Ford uses 3D printing to create parts such as brake rotors, cylinder heads, and intake manifolds. Volkswagen uses 3D printing to produce spare parts, such as gear knobs, mirror caps, and nameplates.
The robotics industry is another sector that uses 3D printing extensively. 3D printing enables the creation of robots that are more flexible, adaptable, and intelligent. 3D printing also allows for the integration of sensors, actuators, and electronics into the robot’s body, as well as the fabrication of soft and organic materials, such as rubber and silicone. Some examples of robots that use 3D printing are Soft Robotics’ grippers, which can handle delicate and irregular objects, and Boston Dynamics’ Spot, which has 3D printed legs and feet.
Construction
The construction industry is one of the emerging sectors that use 3D printing technology. 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry by reducing the cost, time, and environmental impact of building structures. 3D printing can also create more complex and innovative designs, as well as customized and personalized solutions. Some examples of 3D printed structures are Apis Cor’s house, which was printed in 24 hours in Russia, and ICON’s village, which was printed in 48 hours in Mexico.
Conclusion
3D printing is a powerful and versatile technology that has many applications in different industries. Discrete manufacturing is the top industry for 3D printing, as it can benefit from the advantages of 3D printing, such as reducing waste, increasing efficiency, enhancing quality, and enabling customization. Some of the sectors that use 3D printing most are aerospace, automotive, robotics, and construction. 3D printing is not only a tool for prototyping, but also a method for producing final products that are more innovative, functional, and sustainable. 3D printing is expected to grow and expand in the future, as more industries adopt and embrace this technology.
