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UTRECHT, Netherlands, April 1, 2021 /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/ --

Annual 3D Printing Sentiment Index Illustrates An Increase In 3D Printing

Implementation And Maturity

The latest research from a global study shows the implementation of 3D printing

and sophistication of its use cases increased during 2020. The pandemic

inspired innovative engineers around the globe to apply game-changing,

unexpected, and inspirational uses for 3D printing to ensure business

continuity. The 2021 3D Printing Sentiment Index

[https://ultimaker.com/3d-printing-sentiment-index ] was announced today by

Ultimaker [https://ultimaker.com/ ], the global leader in professional 3D

printing. The research, conducted by the independent research firm Savanta

[https://savanta.com/], provides a comprehensive view of the current and future

potential for 3D printing in twelve key markets worldwide, while covering the

widest range of verticals and professions, including education. The survey was

conducted in the United States of America, Mexico, United Kingdom, Germany,

France, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, China, Japan, South Korea and

Australia.

A necessary investment

The new research shows that awareness of 3D printing increased globally to 71%.

Awareness in China was the highest (84%), followed by Switzerland (83%),

Netherlands (76%) and USA (76%). Overall sentiment was also positive towards 3D

printing: 65% of respondents aware of 3D printing believe it will be a

widespread technology in their industry in the next five years (7% increase).

This corresponds with the increased perceived priority: more than a quarter

(27%) of respondents claimed 3D printing is an investment priority (7% increase

compared to the previous Index) and almost half (49%) believe it will become a

business-critical function.

Currently, implementation of 3D printing is highest in the U.S., U.K., Germany

and France. Mexico is also experiencing growth; likely attributed to many

outsourcing opportunities coming from its North American neighbours. Among its

millions of users, plastics and polymers are the most commonly used materials,

with PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol), PET (polyethylene

terephthalate), and PETT (Polyethylene coTrimethylene Terephthalate) gaining

ground 31% (4% increase).

Overall, the index reveals the U.S.A, U.K., and Germany have the highest

expectations for implementing additive manufacturing and capitalising on its

opportunities. All other countries rank as follows:

1. United States of America                        

2. United Kingdom                        

3. Germany

4. France

5. China        

6. Mexico

7. Japan

8. South Korea

9. Switzerland        

10. Netherlands

11. Italy

12. Australia

More country-level details can be found here

[https://ultimaker.com/3d-printing-sentiment-index/overview].

Adversity fosters creativity

While 1-in-3 businesses surveyed are currently using 3D printing, it is only

fully embedded in less than 1-in-10 businesses. This provides great

opportunities for even more growth in awareness, knowledge and usage. The

COVID-19 pandemic likely drove adoption as 3D printing proved to be a reliable

alternative for fast innovation and local manufacturing. The adoption maturity

therefore increased in 2020 with companies advancing from a small team using

the technology (Champion Stage) to a well-implemented application, sometimes

even across the business, showing measurable ROI (Competence Centre Stage

increased 3% and Fully Embedded Stage increased 2%).

Furthermore, the use cases of 3D printing have become more advanced as

companies sought to continue their business operations amidst ongoing

challenges. These use cases helped engineers globally to support disrupted

supply chains in innovative ways. As a result, 55% of businesses using 3D

printing produce end-use parts and almost three quarters use it to produce

tools, optimize workshop organization and streamline logistics. Prototyping was

down 8%, but remains the most common use of 3D printing.

"Manufacturers across the globe had to quickly adjust when the pandemic shifted

their supply chains. From prototyping innovations to printing their own tools

to keep machines going, those with an open mind adapted most effectively. It

really shows the great way in which innovators globally work hard to ensure

continuation of business, production and everyday life, despite or even because

of external challenges. The possibilities of 3D printing are truly endless so

it is exciting to see the amazing solutions designers and engineers come up

with. We're very proud that Ultimaker helps businesses ensure continuation,

despite adversities, by embracing 3D printing," said Jürgen von Hollen, CEO at

Ultimaker.

Challenges

Despite 3D printing driving positive outcomes during the pandemic, there remain

obstacles that are slowing widespread implementation. Although these barriers

were slightly lower in the 2020 survey, operational capabilities (67%),

employee knowledge (65%), and building a sound business case (40%) still limit

companies in unlocking opportunities. The operational capabilities that are the

biggest cause of concern for companies are faster printing, integration with

existing tools and software (ecosystem) and reliability/accuracy of the print.

About the research

The study was conducted online by Savanta in December 2020. The sample covered

2.525 professionals of which 1,692 professionals were aware of the technology

from twelve countries: United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, Germany, France,

Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, China, Japan, South Korea and Australia

and completed the survey. Professionals came from all levels of business, as

well as a wide variety of industries, including but not limited to healthcare,

manufacturing, architecture and automotive.

Ultimaker

Established in 2011, Ultimaker offers an open and easy-to-use solution of 3D

printers, software, and materials that enable professional designers and

engineers to transform the way they manufacture. It allows them to innovate at

any place and anytime while remaining flexible to respond to market demand.

Over 400 employees work together to accelerate the world's transition to

digital manufacturing.

Infographic -

https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1476460/3D_Printing_Infographic.jpg

Source : Ultimaker