As we usher in the new year, the additive manufacturing (AM) industry is poised for further growth and innovation. Insights from industry leaders, pioneers, and AI analysts converge to highlight key trends shaping the landscape in 2024. While AI can provide general observations, human expertise remains irreplaceable. Here are the identified trends that are likely to continue in the AM sector.
Key trends for additive manufacturing in 2024
Increased adoption
The steady growth of additive manufacturing is expected to persist, with various sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods continuing to embrace 3D printing technologies.
Advancements in materials
Ongoing research and development efforts will lead to the introduction of innovative materials, expanding the applications, and enhancing the quality of printed objects in 2024.
Larger and faster printers
Technological advancements will drive the evolution of 3D printers, making them larger, faster, and more efficient. This will enable the production of larger and more complex parts in shorter timeframes.
Sustainability
With a growing emphasis on environmental concerns, the additive manufacturing industry is expected to focus more on sustainable practices, including the development of eco-friendly materials and processes.
Customization and personalization
The unique capability of 3D printing to create customized and personalized products will see broader utilization across industries to meet individual customer needs more effectively.
Regulatory changes
Government bodies are likely to introduce new regulations and standards, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare and aerospace, to ensure safety and quality in additive manufacturing.
Integration with other technologies
Additive manufacturing will continue to integrate with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and blockchain for enhanced design, monitoring, and supply chain management.
Smarter factories and the role of AI
AI in modernizing manufacturing
Industry leaders emphasize the pivotal role of AI in modernizing the manufacturing sector. CEOs foresee significant AI integration in the next one to two years, with over 70% reporting significant ROI in supply chain management, quality control, and procurement.
Factory floor innovation
The factory floor is highlighted as the critical nexus for addressing challenges and meeting increasing demands. Advanced technologies, driven by integrated hardware and software, aim to enhance efficiency and adaptability in the face of disruptions.
AM accelerating innovation in consumer goods
As barriers to entry lower, consumer goods manufacturers are integrating additive manufacturing into production workflows. AM’s ability to catalyze innovation enables faster product development and the creation of products with unprecedented capabilities.
Two paths for 3D printing production
Manufacturers are expected to follow two paths: traditional reliance on service bureaus for quick and cost-efficient printing and a shift toward in-house 3D printing knowledge for end-use parts at scale.
AI, 5G, IoT, and smart factories
A transition towards smart factories is anticipated, marked by increased integration of AI, 5G, IoT, data analytics, and cloud computing. This shift promises benefits like cost reduction, improved product quality, enhanced security, and sustainability.
A shared, distributed, and sustainable economy
Reshoring and shared economy
Reshoring trends are predicted to continue upward, with 76% of manufacturing CEOs successfully reshoring operations. The intersection of manufacturing and the sharing economy is expected to redefine production models, creating a more sustainable and connected ecosystem.
Reducing tied-up capital
Companies are urged to analyze and minimize inefficient processes, focusing on reducing storage costs. A move towards on-demand manufacturing and a connected production network is identified as an opportunity for greater flexibility and sustainability.
AM’s role in a sustainable future
Addressing climate change
The additive manufacturing industry acknowledges climate change as an existential threat caused by human activity. Companies are expected to prioritize sustainability, with increased investment in measuring and tracking tools for decarbonization.
Focus on water conservation and embodied carbon
In sustainability conversations, water conservation and embodied carbon are projected to take center stage. Financial, insurance and regulatory incentives are expected to drive the promotion of water conservation and sustainable materials.
Opportunities and Developments in 2024
Transformative role in industrial applications
AM is demonstrating its transformative ability in various industrial applications, with increasing significance expected in semiconductor and durable consumer goods industries.
Automotive industry dynamics
While the automotive industry is poised for growth, challenges such as battery innovation, charger compatibility, and consumer adoption rates may impact the industry’s ability to meet goals set by administrations.
Soft robotics and 4D printing
Expectations point towards the significant impact of soft robotics, with a compound annual growth rate of 35.1% between 2022 and 2027. Additionally, 4D printing using reactive materials is anticipated to revolutionize industries like aerospace and medical technology.
Rise of Mid-range printer technologies
A rise in mid-range printer technologies catering to applications between hobbyist and industrial categories is foreseen, opening new doors for 3D printing in industries like automotive.
The additive manufacturing industry is set for a dynamic year in 2024, marked by increased adoption, technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and the integration of AI. These trends signal a transformative period for manufacturing, paving the way for smarter, more distributed, and sustainable practices. As the industry continues to evolve, collaboration and innovation will remain key drivers of success.
