Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
decades to come and new areas of manufacturing will be added as the technology devel-
ops. The direct part manufacturing share of the total 3D printing market increased from 3.9
percent in 2003 to 34.7 percent in 2013 according to Wohlers Associates.
Veterans in the “additive manufacturing” industry often like to point out that 3D printing
has been around for 30 years. That is true, but the technology was not as interesting when
it mainly was used for prototyping. It is the first steps and the future potential of using 3D
printing for manufacturing that have created the visions of a “third industrial revolution”.
