According to the latest market estimations by Fairfield Market Research, the global additive manufacturing market is poised for substantial growth, expected to reach a valuation of US$ 31 Billion by the end of 2024. The market is experiencing robust demand for complex geometries with high precision across various industries, driven by the widespread adoption of additive manufacturing techniques. This growth is projected to continue at a remarkable double-digit growth throughout the forecast period.
Understanding Additive Manufacturing (AM):
Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is a computer-controlled process that fabricates three-dimensional objects by depositing materials layer by layer. It enables the creation of precise geometric shapes, revolutionizing production processes compared to traditional manufacturing methods that often require material removal through machining.
Market Dynamics:
- Rising Defense Investments: The adoption of 3D printing in defense equipment manufacturing is ushering in revolutionary changes. 3D printing technologies excel at producing complex geometries with high precision, reducing production costs, and expediting mass production. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Russia, and France are channeling significant portions of their budgets into defense research to incorporate 3D printing into the production of military equipment.
- Transforming the Electronics Industry: Additive manufacturing is becoming a game-changer in the electronics sector. The precision and speed required for producing electronic products such as printed circuit boards and semiconductors are met by 3D printing. It allows prominent electronic product manufacturers to cater to low-quantity orders with competitive pricing, potentially replacing conventional manufacturing methods.
- High Capital Investment: Despite the promising growth of additive manufacturing, challenges include consumer awareness, the initial cost of investment, and conventional production concerns. The capital cost for 3D printing machines varies from US$ 50,000 to US$ 400,000, making it a significant barrier for some. Lack of skilled professionals further impacts adoption, especially in developing countries.
Country-wise Analysis:
- U.S. Leads the Way: The United States boasts the world's largest installed base for 3D printers, positioning it to lead the global additive manufacturing market. With over 60% of American businesses potentially benefiting from 3D printing, there is ample opportunity for growth in the coming years.
- China's Rise: China has embraced 3D printing with government support since 2012. With investments in advanced production processes, China aims to maintain its status as the "manufacturing hub of the world." This strategic focus is expected to fuel market growth between 2024 and 2031.
Competitive Analysis:
The rapid global adoption of additive manufacturing is leading to a fragmented market landscape. Currently, prominent players hold more than three-fourths of the market share, but this dominance is expected to decline as technological advancements and decreased initial capital investments attract new market entrants.
Key Companies Profiled:
- Reinshaw Plc
- Materialise
- Wipro Limited
- ANSYS, Inc.
- Siemens Industry Software Inc.
- Evonik
- Stratasys Ltd.
- Xerox Corporation
- General Electric
- AMFG
- Optomec
- American Additive Manufacturing LLC
- Mazak Corporation
- Others
Key Segments Covered in Additive Manufacturing Industry Research
By Technology:
- Powder Bed Fusion
- Direct Energy Deposition
- Material Jetting
- Binder Jetting
- Material Extrusion
- Photo polymerization
By Application:
- Medical
- Automotive
- Aerospace & Defence
- Consumer Electronics
- Architecture
- Industrial Equipment
- Education & Research Institutions
By Product Type:
Polymers Machine
Metal Machine
Desktop Machine
Polymers and Composite
Metals
Ceramics
By Region:
- North America
- Latin America
- Europe
- East Asia
- South Asia
- Oceania
- Middle East & Africa