There are hundreds of ways in which 3D printing can be utilised to benefit the engineering industry with new applications of the technology are being explored and developed all the time.

Prototyping is where 3D printing first took off. Scale models can be generated to test form, fit and function, at a fraction of the cost of a machined or moulded part, in a fraction of the time. Prototypes might be used in destructive testing to identify stress concentrations or weaknesses in a component. Models can be used in wind-tunnels to test aerodynamic performance. They might be used as a tactile and visual aid in product design discussions regarding aesthetics and ergonomics.

With the correct material choice, 3D printing can now generate end-use, functional parts. The technology excels where small batch or one-off production is necessary and can eliminate tooling costs. Bespoke items can be produced quickly and cheaply. It might be a fitted shoe sole customised to the unique shape of your foot, or a spare part that is obsolete or difficult to find. Even larger production runs may be suited to 3D printing if the desired geometry of a component is simply impossible to achieve any other way. There are now printers making metal parts with properties that match those of equivalent machined parts.

Currently most 3D materials are not as strong as ABS, the parts do not end up as smooth as those from an injection moulded tool and the prices are much too high. We are working to change all three of those limitations.