THE 6 MOST IMPORTANT 3D PRINTING TRENDS IN 2020
3D printing is a disruptive technology that has developed at a rapid pace in recent years. There have been developments regarding the materials and technical possibilities in the printing itself, or in the construction. There are also new applications and studies, for example in the field of 3D printing in medicine. We would like to take a look ahead and summarize the 6 most important 3D printing trends, which will also occupy us in 2020.
1. the 3D process chain continues
A trend in 3D printing that was already apparent at this year's Formnext is a significant increase along the entire process chain. Among the new exhibitors at Formnext are internationally active groups such as 3M Advanced Materials, Bosch-Rexroth, Covestro, Evonik, Mitsubishi, Thyssenkrupp Materials and Xerox. In addition, there are numerous young and innovative companies, as well as traditional medium-sized enterprises. This trend is likely to continue in 2020.
2. plastics increasingly in focus again
It is foreseeable that in 2020 the industry will once again increasingly focus on plastic materials. There are many reasons for this, but they are closely linked to technical progress. New production methods, a significant increase in the performance of 3D printing systems and new material developments, such as high-temperature and composite materials, go hand in hand. The resulting new applications can even replace metal components in some cases.
3. new possibilities in post-processing
Another factor that could be of decisive importance for the further industrial development of 3D printing in 2020 is the strong dynamic observed in the field of post-processing, i.e. the post-production of 3D models. Companies from more traditional industrial fields are increasingly active in this area.
4. artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important
The combination of artificial intelligence with 3D printing was already identified in 2019 as one of the 5 main trends in 3D printing. The relevance of Artificial Intelligence has not decreased in the meantime, but even increased. There are already many applications - such as our 3D Configurator - which, based on various data, can simplify your ordering process, improve your 3D design and thus detect or avoid errors in the printed part more quickly.
5th Medical 3D Printing - What is coming in 2020 & what is still to come
One of the most promising applications of 3D printing for the general public is clearly the medical field. Here too, further innovations are expected in 2020. There is no doubt that 3D printed anatomical models will be widely used. For example, models that help surgeons to better prepare for operations or joint implants made with additives - there is great potential here.
Medical equipment, instruments and tools are also increasingly being manufactured using additives, thanks to the individualisation that this makes possible.
The medical sector is likely to see an even greater boom in 3D printing in dentistry in 2020. One example of this could soon be 3D printed dental braces containing special polymers that not only treat malpositioned teeth but also prevent caries.
On the other hand, 3D printing of transplantable organs is unfortunately not expected to become reality in 2020.
6. sustainability in 3D printing is becoming more important
Dubai is THE example par excellence when we think of a sustainable use of 3D printing technology. According to the WEF, the city on the Persian Gulf has set itself the goal of producing 25% of all buildings with the latest 3D technology and thus being able to build more sustainably and cost-effectively.
Dubai is on the way to reach this ambitious goal. In November 2019, they presented the world's largest 3D printed building, in which they were able to save around 60% of construction waste by using 3D printing.
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