Plastic 3D Printing: Robust Utilities and Benefits for Businesses

Plastic 3d printing technology is growing by leaps and bounds. It is being used extensively across multiple industries for producing products, parts, and functional prototypes. This method slowly but surely replaces traditional processes such as moulding and machining.

As additive manufacturing is not limited to large companies, small-scale manufacturers benefit from this technology. As a result, numerous small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have started using 3D printed plastics for their businesses.

What is plastic 3d printing?

3D printing is the advanced method of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital model. A 3D printer reads a CAD file and builds the object layer by layer using plastic filament.

This advancement has been around for over two decades, but the use cases were limited to industrial applications. In the past few years, there has been a rise in the popularity of 3D printers, which has led to significant advancements in technology. In addition, it has made it more accessible to businesses of all sizes. The most popular plastic 3d printing methods are fused deposition modelling (FDM) and stereolithography (SLA).

Applications of plastic 3d printing technology

Plastic 3d printing offers robust applications across multiple industries. Whether automotive, aerospace or consumer products, businesses can use 3D printing to create customised products and parts. Some critical applications of plastic additive manufacturing across different industries are:

Consumer products:

3D printed consumer products are becoming increasingly popular. Some of the most popular 3D printed consumer products include phone cases, toys, home decor items, and jewellery. In addition, as personalisation is growing, businesses can attract more customers by offering them unique and customised products.

Aerospace:

The aerospace domain is one of the significant beneficiaries of 3D printing technology. Plastic additive manufacturing creates engine parts, exterior panels, interiors, and other components. Many times, engineers use plastic 3d printing for prototyping and testing new designs.

Automotive:

The automotive industry is also benefiting from plastic 3d printing technology. Automotive companies are using 3D printers to create customised car parts and components. In addition, 3D printing is also being used to develop prototypes of new car models. This technology saves a lot of money and time during the prototyping phase.

Medical devices:

This manufacturing tech is also used in the medical field to create implants, prosthetics, and surgical instruments. Designing customised products has made 3D printing invaluable for the medical industry. Moreover, 3D printing helps reduce the cost and time required for medical device development.

Eyewear industry:

The eyewear industry is using 3D printing to create frames and lens prototypes. The ability to quickly develop prototypes saves time during the product development process. Moreover, 3D printed eyewear is much lighter and more comfortable than traditional glasses.

Which industries can use 3d printing?

It has become quick and easy for companies to get a professional 3d printing service and turn their idea into a transforming reality. The universal approach of 3d printing technology makes it easier for companies to adopt regardless of industries and company size. Below are some industries that see 3d printing as a massive opportunity.

Architecture:

Architects use 3D printing to create models of their designs. It helps them visualise the design and make necessary changes before the construction process begins. In addition, 3D printing can also be used to create prototypes of new building materials.

Construction:

3D printing technology is also used in the construction industry. Construction companies are using 3D printers to create customised building parts and components. In addition, 3D printing is also being used to develop prototypes of new construction designs. As a result, it helps reduce the cost and time required for product development.

Education:

3D printing is a productive way for students to learn about design and engineering principles. Many schools use 3D printers to create models and prototypes of new designs. It helps students understand the principles of design and engineering better.

Food:

3D printing is also being used to create customised food products in the food industry. In addition, 3D printing is also being used to produce prototypes of new food products. It helps reduce the cost and time required for product development.

Fashion:

The fashion industry is using 3D printing to create customised clothing and accessories. In addition, 3D printing is also being used to develop prototypes of new fashion designs. It helps reduce the cost and time required for product development.

Industrial design:

Industrial designers use 3D printing to create models and prototypes of new products. This quick prototyping process helps them understand the product better and make necessary changes before mass production begins. In addition, 3D printing can also be used to create prototypes of new materials and components.

Benefits of plastic 3d printing:

Plastic additive manufacturing brings in a lot of benefits to businesses. Some of these benefits are listed below.

Faster product development:

3D printing helps reduce the time and cost required for product development. It is because 3D printing allows businesses to create prototypes quickly and easily. In addition, 3D printing eliminates the need for expensive moulds and tooling.

Customised products:

3D printing allows businesses to create customised products according to the needs of their customers. As a result, it helps companies stand out from their competitors and attract more customers.

Reduced waste:

3D printing eliminates the need for excess material, which reduces the amount of waste produced by a business. In addition, 3D printing also helps companies use less energy and resources to make products.

Improved quality:

3D printing produces high-quality products with intricate details. It helps businesses make products that meet the highest standards of quality.

Reduced manufacturing costs:

3D printing helps businesses reduce the cost of manufacturing products. It is because 3D printing eliminates the need for expensive tools and machinery. In addition, it also allows companies to use less material to produce components.

Wide range of 3d printing materials:

There are 80+ plastic materials available for 3D printing, giving businesses a wide range of options. In addition, it helps companies create products that meet the specific needs of their customers.

3D printing growth in India

The trend of 3d print in India is growing exponentially. According to reports, the 3d printing market in India is growing at a rate of 20% every year. In addition, it’s expected that the market will cross the mark of $37.2 billion in 2026, which was $12.6 billion in 2020. Some of the major industries that will benefit from this new advancement will be healthcare, electronics, aerospace, and consumer products.

Wrapping up!

3D printing is a rapidly surging technology that changes the way businesses produce products. It offers a wide range of benefits that allows companies to create high-quality products quickly and easily. Along with plastic 3d printing, metal printing is also gaining popularity.