Most manufacturers have heard of additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing, but adoption has been slow. It’s not surprising; incorporating new technology into production can be daunting. Options range from low-cost plastic printers for a few hundred dollars, to industrial-grade systems for over a million. While the choices may seem overwhelming, getting started doesn’t have to be. There is no shortcut to mastering AM equipment, materials, design, and postprocessing. Often, the best way to get started is by using a service bureau. These companies are experts in all aspects of their field, offering guidance with part design, process selection, and overall optimization. With a vested interest in improving efficiency and cost, they often share valuable knowledge and referrals. On the Formnext Stage at IMTS 2024, audiences listened to an insightful panel discussion between such service providers. “Additive Manufacturing Services” included Michael Parks from Gzero Additive, Greg Paulsen from Xometry, and Ken Burns from GKN Additive Forecast 3D. Parks’ OEM machinery company, GZERO Additive, uses fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology to make small to medium-sized plastic parts from various materials. GZERO makes parts for customers exploring the technology, allowing them to assess its capabilities. If demand grows, its customers can buy a system and move the work in-house. GZERO also provides training to ensure high success rates. Burns’ company, GKN Additive, is a digital manufacturer of advanced plastic and metal AM parts, backed by GKN Powder Metallurgy's 260+ years of engineering and production expertise. Equipped with one of the world's largest global networks of industrial 3D printers and innovative digital solutions, GKN AM offers prototyping and production for projects ranging from a single part to over one million across a myriad of industries. Early on, GKN recognized emerging metal powder and binder technologies as an alternative to traditional laser powder bed fusion. Partnering with HP, the company helped to establish the technology and build a customer base. Together, they acquired Forecast 3D, a leading service bureau which specializes in HP Multi-Jet Fusion technology, offering plastic and metal production parts from its headquarters in Carlsbad, California. Paulsen’s company, Xometry, takes a different approach. In addition to AM, it also offers injection molding, machining, and metal fabrication. Customers can upload a 3D model on its website and receive AI-driven instant quotes comparing AM to machining or metal fabrication to choose the right tool for the job. Once chosen, a certified shop completes the job, ensures quality, and sends it directly to the customer. Hiring a consultant is another way to get started with 3D printing. Consultants can refer customers to a service bureau that serve as learning partners and help build capability. To get started in additive manufacturing, one of the best things to do is to visit IMTS. While IMTS 2024 has passed and IMTS 2026 is more than a year away, you can still dive into additive manufacturing by exploring exhibitors, expert presentations, and resources at IMTS.com. There are exhibitors with machines of all different technologies and materials. If something interests you, machine exhibitors can connect you to their system owners who can help bring your part designs to life.
The adoption of additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing has been slow. It’s not surprising as options range from low-cost plastic printers to million-dollar industrial-grade systems. While the choices may seem overwhelming, getting started doesn’t have to be.
Subscribe to Newsletters
Get the latest news from IMTS delivered to your inbox.