Editorials / Opinions
Combinatory Manufacturing, Happening at Last?
In 2009, I introduced the concept of “combinatory manufacturing” while at Shapeways. This approach integrates 3D-printed components with conventionally manufactured ones to create end-use products. Unlike merely using 3D printing…
AM Rewind: The Biggest News and Trends of 2024
After a sluggish 2023, driven by persistent inflation and geopolitical tensions, 2024 has seen some recovery. Economic growth climbed from about 2.8 percent in 2023 to a modest 3.2 percent…
3D Printing: Time for a Rebrand?
“3D printing” used to symbolize innovation and a promising manufacturing future—but not so much anymore. However, many governments are now striving to revive local manufacturing and bolster industrial bases. At…
Will There Be 3D Printed Autophage Missiles?
First publicly unveiled at the University of Glasgow a year ago, advancements in “autophage” rocket engines promise significant efficiency gains. These polymer-based rocket motors are designed to consume themselves in…
3D Printer Manufacturers, Please Race to the Bottom!
When discussing Chinese competition with Western firms, a frequently echoed refrain is, “We’re not going to race to the bottom” or “We can’t win a race to the bottom.” In…
Welcome to the Desktop 3D Printing Evolution, Part 4: The Factory of the Future (or Luvocom 3F PPS CF 9938)
Previously in this series, we’ve discussed major companies entering the market, the power of compounding, competitive dynamics within the industry, and materials tailored for specific applications. Now, we examine how…
Update: Velo3D Enters Forbearance Agreement as Debt Challenges Intensify
See the addendum to this article for an update from 12/12/24. Velo3D is set to lay off an additional 46 employees by the end of 2024 as part of its latest…
Welcome to the Desktop 3D Printing Evolution, Part 4: Recoating Machines
In previous installments of this series, we’ve examined how networks of companies developed key ingredients that evolved into a vibrant ecosystem of firms, making desktop 3D printing fit for purpose….
Seeding 3D Printing Across the World – Layoffs and Growth
We are experiencing an extended bout of layoffs across the industry. Partially the result of unimaginative management who are unable to think clearly in times of inclement weather there is…
Welcome to the Desktop 3D Printing Revolution, Part 3: PA 12 CF
In previous installments of this series, we explored how unfavorable economics for large materials companies and the effects of compounding have led to the rise of a thriving materials market….
Welcome to the Desktop 3D Printing Revolution, Part 2: Compounding Value
In the previous installment of the series we briefly looked at how the market entry of many materials firms, open 3D printers and many other players in software lead to…
Bioprinting Strategies: The Robin Hoods of Wake Forest
Rue to those aspiring to be modern-day Robin Hoods of Wake Forest: the path to riches in bioprinting is fraught with challenges. It’s perplexing that the media has not fully…
The Bambu Lab 3D Printing Platform… or Trapdoor?
Bambu Lab began as a completely closed 3D printing system, where the printer, software, and materials all functioned well but were exclusively from the company itself. This approach mirrored Formlabs,…
A BLT Knuckle Sandwich: The Sheer Size of BLT’s Metal 3D Printing Operations
A LinkedIn post showing Xi’an Bright Laser Technologies’ (BLT’s) headquarters, has stirred up a lot of conversation. Some complained about state support, while others were impressed by the company’s facilities….
Collision Repair Standardization of 3D-Printed Parts
The collision repair industry is at the cusp of a revolution, with one of the most exciting developments being the advent of 3D printing technology. Additive manufacturing (AM) can assist…
The Three Market Laws of Additive Manufacturing
In the last article in this two-part series, I reflected on my tumultuous journey in the additive manufacturing (AM) industry and how that led me to understanding the dynamics of…
The Three Market Laws of Additive Manufacturing, Part 1
For over 10 years, I ran 3D printing-based businesses in Poland. It’s a tough market for additive manufacturing (AM). The country is very wealthy and receptive when it comes to…
Honey, I Shrunk the Laser Wars: From Pricey to Practical, the Coming Age of Affordable SLS Tech
The last five years have seen relentless one-upmanship by metal powder-bed fusion OEMs; A trend often referred to as the “Laser Wars.” Is it now time to brace for the…
The Deadliest of all Dead Ends in the 3D Printing Industry
The end of June saw the execution of North America’s biggest additive manufacturing (AM) trade show of the year, RAPID + TCT, in Los Angeles, California. I wasn’t there. I…
The Transformative Power of 3D Printing in the Collision Industry: Saving Cost and the Environment
The collision industry is abuzz with the potential of 3D printing technology and advanced materials such as polypropylene. One of the most significant applications is the potential repair of damaged…
3D Printed Food: In Defense of Ethical Meat
In Florida and Alabama, politicians have banned lab-grown meat. Ethical meat is an industry in its infancy, yet it is already banned. Lab-grown meat, in my opinion, should not be…
Will Stratasys Merge with HP? – Dream Mergers and Acquisitions
In the first quarter 2024 earnings call for Stratasys (Nasdaq: SSYS), Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Troy Jensen hinted at a potentially game-changing future for the company, saying: “I personally believe you…
Rescuing the Additive Industry: The Straight Edge 3D Printing Manifesto
Things have not been going well in the 3D printing industry for a long time. Much has been written on this topic and the reasons for this situation have been…
Printing a Better Game: 3D Printing and the Evolution of Golf Equipment
The governing bodies of professional golf — the R&A and USGA — have finally dropped the widely expected news that testing conditions for golf ball conformation will change, rendering nearly…
