Feature

Revolutionising manufacturing with 3D printing: Current impact and future possibilities

In what remain volatile times for the manufacturing industry, Henrike Wonneberger, COO and Co-Founder of Replique, takes a look at the current situation with regard to 3D printing/additive manufacturing, its current impact, and what else we can expect from the technology in the future.

29/02/2024 16:56:23

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Manufacturers are facing some critical challenges, which are reshaping the landscape of the industry. One of the most pressing concerns is the impact of climate change and the growing customer demand
for sustainability.

Consumers, and subsequently regulatory bodies, request more eco-friendly products, and this trend is driving manufacturers to reevaluate their processes and adopt more sustainable practices. However, implementing these changes while maintaining
cost-effectiveness remains a challenge for many companies.

Another major challenge is the ongoing supply chain disruptions. The past few years have witnessed unprecedented events, from natural disasters to global health crises, that have
severely impacted the manufacturing industry. These disruptions have highlighted the need for more agile and resilient supply chain processes.

Manufacturers now face the pressure of minimising lead times, ensuring consistent availability of
critical parts, and optimising production to cope with unexpected shifts in demand.

By adopting additive manufacturing (AM), we can pave the way for more sustainable and resilient processes.

Read the full article in DPA's March issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.