With the popularity of 3D printing today, one can only wonder, what is next. What future advances will once again change the technology for 3D printers? Experts have weighed in on the ever-changing manufacturing and technology industries to get insight of what innovations will impact the 3D world in the future. For example, additive manufacturing technology will take the lead as even the largest 3D printers become faster with the ability to take on greater industrial designs. But that’s not all. Keep reading to learn more about the possibilities ahead.
The Environmental Impact of 3D Printing
One of the greatest features of 3D printing is natural accuracy, which reduces manufacturing waste and lowers the carbon footprint. Since the invention of 3D printing, there have been a range of printable materials. Currently, the items which can be printed range from plastic and metal to resin, carbon fiber and even human flesh. The possibilities for printing materials continue to be explored, which means there is no telling what is next for further reducing carbon emissions as well as creative opportunities.
Is 3D Printing Here to Stay?
Because 3D printing is transforming manufacturing, more and more industries will regularly use this style of manufacturing to produce materials, hardware, software, designs, models, and applications. A 3D printer can be used to create tools, spare parts, create mockups, quick prototypes, personalized items, and more. For example, dentistry is one of the most recent industries to switch entirely to 3D printing.
Further Understanding 3D Printers Role in More Industries
The medical industry is already seeing significant benefits of 3D printing, particularly in the reduction of costly medical devices, organs, implants, and more. In the United States, a kidney transplant can cost a whopping $300,000. But 3D printers are being tested for major transplants and medical students are being trained for using 3D designs in the future. The ability to mimic the growth of organs in the human body by creating anatomical formations in cell cultures, is allowing transplants to happen faster and at a lower cost – saving countless lives!
3D Printing and the Effect on Society
As previously mentioned, reducing waste is a positive impact of 3D printing. Reducing waste means there is little need to recycle, reduce or reuse simply because the waste materials just aren’t there. The accuracy of 3D printing is so remarkable that the precision of the printer significantly reduces waste. This plays a huge impact on society – less garbage, less waste, better economically, and more benefits.
Moving into the Mainstream
Experts predict that there will be tremendous growth in the mainstream usage of 3D printers. That means more people will own these printers than ever before, which will impact the economy, industries across the board, and the environment. Change is happening as we speak, making this a unique and extremely exciting time for 3D printing!
