3D Printing And The Future Of Field Service

By Brian Albright, Field Technologies

The future for 3D printing applications looks bright. But, how and when will they impact field service operations?

3D printing technology is rapidly being embraced in a number of markets. Canalys Research has forecast the worldwide market for 3D printers, associated materials, and services will reach $5.2 billion this year, up from $3.3 billion in 2014. The market will have a compound annual growth rate of 44 percent through 2019, reaching $20.2 billion.

Also referred to as additive manufacturing (AM), 3D printing has been used to produce everything from prototype parts and prosthetics to jewelry molds, medical implants, aircraft parts, and toys. A company called Local Motors even printed an entire car (minus the powertrain and tires) on the floor of a trade show.