3D Printing Plastics Market Trends

3D Printing Plastics Market Trends

The adoption of lightweighting and sustainability is a prominent trend in the 3D printing plastics industry. Firms are now looking for sustainable alternatives to conventional methods of production that create less waste and use fewer resources. Lightweighting is predominantly adopted by the automotive, aerospace and consumer electronics manufacturers to bring down the weight of their components, therefore resulting in better fuel efficiency, emission reductions and improved performance. For instance, in October 2023, KraussMaffei, a manufacturing company, launched powerPrint and precisionPrint granulate and resin 3D printers for industrial use. The existing product portfolio, which includes injection molding, extrusion and reaction process machinery will now be complemented by additive manufacturing.
 

A significant advancement in 3D printing technology involves innovations like binder jetting and continuous liquid interface production (CLIP). These advancements have led to the creation of high-speed printers capable of rapidly producing plastic parts without compromising quality. Furthermore, AI precision and efficiency in printing have improved due to the use of software algorithms. There is an increasing range of material capabilities including multi-material and multi-color capabilities, allowing more complex functional prototypes with different properties as well as end-use components. Additionally, new post-processing technologies, such as automating support removal or surface finishing, have simplified manufacturing processes and helped enhance the global standards that govern 3D printed plastics.