What are the benefits of 3D printing?

What are the benefits of 3D printing? And why use it? A question with a seemingly obvious answer, since the media, companies as well as the general public seem to associate this technology with the 4th industrial revolution. There are more and more actors integrating and applying the technology every day, adding originality in varied sectors such as aeronautics, medical and jewellery. Suggesting a great variety in the advantages of 3D printing.

But to what extent should a company include it in its manufacturing process? How will a company benefit from its adoption? In order to fully understand the use of this technology, we wanted to explain in simple terms the main advantages of 3D printing.

1. A reduced cost for small series

The first point that comes to mind when we talk about the advantages of 3D printing is the economic aspect. By using fewer materials by definition in comparison to subtractive technologies (such as miling a piece of wood and creating some waste), by simplifying assembly but also by shortening the whole supply chain, 3D printing offers a cost of production that can be lower compared to other manufacturing processes.