HP’s Digital Manufacturing Report shows increased interest in 3D printing globally

Last October, HP unveiled its Digital Manufacturing Report, a study conducted among 2,175 decision-makers around the world ( across 3 continents and 9 geographic areas to be precise). After the recent publication of its French study, we decided to look at its trends for the global market. The report seeks to understand the impact of digital manufacturing technologies on our production methods and more specifically the adoption of additive manufacturing by companies and the possible role 3D printing can play. The conclusion is clear: for all respondents, digital manufacturing is an engine of economic growth and 85% indicated that their company plans to increase their investments in 3D printing technologies. These technologies accelerate innovation, reduce manufacturing costs and allow for mass customization. That being said, there are still obstacles, many believe that the adoption of AM technologies is still difficult because of a lack of skilled labor. Through this global study, HP shows the full potential of additive manufacturing, highlighting its ability to change the way we design, prototype, produce and consume.

The health crisis has shown the weaknesses in our supply chains and the limitations of our current production methods. Additive manufacturing has proven to be a great asset in meeting these challenges by offering a decentralized model, favoring local and on-demand production. Last year, we saw that 3D printing manufacturers and users were some of the first to provide PPE and other necessary medical devices to respond quickly to the COVID-19 crisis. Furthermore, respondents to HP’s study highlighted that the medical, industrial and automotive industries were the most ripe for innovation in additive manufacturing/3D printing over the next five years.

Additive Manufacturing has had a significant impact on the medical sector(photo credits : Rady Children’s Hospital / piece 3D printed on a HP machine)

Additive manufacturing at the heart of innovation

For three-quarters of respondents to the study, 3D printing is a way of improving their agility but is especially interesting because of its capacity for innovation. Indeed, the majority of global participants consider that 3D technologies facilitate the development of innovative ideas and solutions by allowing on-demand, personalized production and also eliminating physical stocks.