Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Technological limitations
3D printing cannot compete with traditional manufacturing when it comes to speed, material
properties, material choices and surface finish, many experts say that it never will. The cost
of 3D printing equipment rules out compensating for speed by setting up “farms” of 3D
printers when trying to compete with traditional mass production. The ongoing job for 3D
printing researchers is to catch up with traditional manufacturing. Great advances have been
made and it is very possible that 3D printing will get very close to the quality of traditional
manufacturing in many aspects. It is also very possible that 3D printing never will be faster,
have as many material choices or as good material properties as, for example, plastic injec-
tion molding (not accounting for the time it takes to make the mold). 3D printing experts
like Todd Grimm and Terry Wohlers are fast to downplay the manufacturing possibilities of
3D printing in order to take a more sober view in light of the recent 3D printing hype. But
maybe we should take some time and ponder what the Telegraph Company wrote when they
were offered Alexander Graham Bell's new invention in 1876:
“
The idea of installing “telephones” in every city is idiotic… Why would any person want to
use this ungainly and impractical device when we can send a messenger to the telegraph of-
fice and have a clear written message sent to any large city in the US? This “telephone” has
too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as means of communication. The device
is inherently of no value to us
.”
[xlviii]
It does not hurt to think outside the box. New inventions might change the playing field.
The benefits of 3D printing are not the additive processes (SLA, FDM, SLS etc.) per se, but
digital blueprints management and the possibility of instant manufacturing without need of
making expensive molds or tools. It is possible that crossbreeding of 3D printing with tradi-
tional manufacturing will maintain this essence while improving the quality of the manufac-
tured products.
One should also not forget that 3D printing already has unique benefits that set it apart from
traditional manufacturing including: integrated functionality in produced parts, light weight
structures and nano-sized printing etc.
