The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of our lives and 3D printing is no different, the manufacturing sector is one of those industries that has been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
One particular industry that has been hugely impacted is the 3D printing sector, the shutdown of many factories especially those in China has led to more companies globally looking in-house and look at ways to print their parts and products to cover the shortages and emerging demands.
The ready availability of raw-materials as easy access to millions of designs has made it extremely easy to print parts and products regardless of shape, size, and designs. It couldn’t come at a better time, as now it can be used to print medical parts and equipment such as ventilators, masks, and face shields which have proven key in securing frontline workers as they execute their mandate.
The designs printed are not only limited to the medical sector but can also be used in a wide variety of industries.
3D printed orthoses
Applications of 3D printing: From Home Projects to Rapid Prototyping
At the turn of the 21st century, only big companies had the privilege and access to 3D printing. But after two long decades, the patents that came with first-generation 3D printers have expired. Nowadays, a lot of creators, designers, and engineers have successfully created prototypes for new printers.
These moves by these new makers have made it easier when it comes to access from 3D printers. The 3D printing process that we have today is an additive process that makes parts and products layer by layer till the end-product is formed.
These manufacturing techniques are used in a wide variety of industries as sentiments towards them are slowly changing, instead of being used for prototyping; now they are mainly used to make parts and products in small volumes which significantly reduces the need to keep large inventories and shipping.
The growth and development of 3D printing are not minor at all as many e-commerce companies have noted a spike in filament orders. The filament is a raw material for 3D printers which signals a rise of printing products at home for domestic use or small-scale production.
3D printing is more than just plastics
There is this misconception that 3D printing is just all about making household products and plastic toys, while it’s common especially if you are a beginner. 3D printing is also used to make a wide range of non-household products. It’s used in the manufacture of medical equipment and hardware.
Even sporting goods and tools are made using 3D printing, the manufacturing technique is used in big industries especially in the military and automotive sector. Soon, the will be a host of products such as pharmaceutical products, electronics, and bulk items like furniture that will be an extensive list of products made from 3D printing.