3D printing is a process of making a three-dimensional solid object from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using an additive process, where successive layers of material are laid down in different shapes. 3D printing is also known as additive manufacturing.
The term 3D printing was first coined in the early 1980s by Chuck Hull of 3D Systems Corporation. Hull is credited with the invention of the first 3D printer, which was also the first commercial 3D printer.
The first 3D printers were large, expensive, and slow. They were used for industrial applications such as prototyping and manufacturing.
In the early 21st century, 3D printing technology became more affordable and accessible to consumers. 3D printers became smaller and faster, and the quality of the prints improved.
3D printing is now used for a wide range of applications, including prototyping, manufacturing, medical implants, prosthetics, and food printing.
The market for 3D printing is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years. The global 3D printing market is expected to be worth $32.8 billion by 2021.
The key drivers of the 3D printing market are the increasing demand for 3D printing in the medical and dental sectors, and the increasing demand for 3D printing in the aerospace and defense sectors.
The 3D printing market is also expected to be driven by the increasing demand for customized products. 3D printing allows consumers to customize products according to their own specifications.
The key challenges faced by the 3D printing market are the high cost of 3D printers and the lack of skilled labor.
The high cost of 3D printers is a major barrier to the growth of the 3D printing market. 3D printers are expensive to purchase and operate.
The lack of skilled labor is also a major challenge for the 3D printing market. The majority of 3D printing jobs require skilled labor, and there is a shortage of skilled labor in the market.
Despite the challenges, the 3D printing market is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years. The increasing demand for 3D printing in the medical and dental sectors, and the increasing demand for 3D printing in the aerospace and defense sectors are expected to drive the growth of the market.
