Myths About Additive Manufacturing We Need To Leave Behind

MEDIA & INSIGHTS

The global additive manufacturing industry has seen phenomenal growth in the past couple of years. AM applications are widely used across diverse industries, including healthcare, defense, aerospace, oil & gas, and consumer goods. AM technology has transformed the way organizations visualize and manufacture products, increasing efficiency and opening the doors for innovation.

However, additive manufacturing is also a victim of baseless assumptions. If you’re uncertain about additive manufacturing and 3D printing, here are a few myths we’ve debunked for you..

Myth: Additive Manufacturing Is Only for Prototypes

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about 3D printing is that it’s only useful for creating functional prototypes. While there’s no denying AM technology’s role in prototyping, this isn’t the only thing you can use it for.

Additive manufacturing is also used for the actual production process. Several industries use additive manufacturing to create applications and product parts.  Additive manufacturing makes the production processes more efficient, boosting productivity. Metal additive manufacturing is especially popular for creating various components for demanding applications.

Myth: Additive Manufacturing Is Expensive

Another myth people have about additive manufacturing is its affordability. Many businesses hesitate to adopt AM technology because they believe it’s extremely expensive, especially compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. However, this isn’t always the case. 

Additive manufacturing can reduce production costs by delivering production runs on a need-only basis. It simplifies the supply chain process and lowers inventory management costs, making it an affordable option. The total cost of ownership of a part is many times less than the conventional manufacturing process for small batch sizes.

Moreover, the price of additive manufacturing operations also varies according to multiple factors. This includes the material used, the production volume, and the orientation of the part in a 3D printer. Thus, additive manufacturing isn’t as exorbitantly expensive as it’s often made out to be.

Myth: Additive Manufacturing Parts Are Inferior

Additive manufacturing uses the latest technology and techniques. The products created through 3D printing are just as high-quality, if not superior, to those made using conventional manufacturing methods.

The misconception usually arises in metal 3D printing as it commonly uses powder as raw material. However, the powder is melted and transformed during the production process, making it ideal for various applications. Metal 3D printing usually produces parts that are better in quality than the casting process. You don’t have to worry about its strength or durability!

If you are looking for 3D printing solutions in the UAE, Falcon Technologies International is your best choice. We offer premium additive manufacturing and 3D printing services in the UAE, helping organizations across diverse industries.

Contact us today to learn more.