3D Printing Gases Market Share Analysis
The aerospace industry has been an early and steadfast adopter of 3D printing technology, playing a pivotal role in its ongoing evolution. Throughout the design workflow of aerospace and aviation products, 3D printing finds diverse applications. Notably, technologies like SLA (Stereolithography) and Material Jetting are employed to create intricate and seamlessly detailed scale models of aerospace designs. Whether it's the swift production of a full-size landing gear enclosure using cost-effective FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) or the meticulous crafting of a full-color control board concept model, 3D printing offers a tailored solution for every prototyping requirement.
One of the most disruptive and valuable contributions of 3D printing in the aerospace sector is evident in the production of low-cost rapid tooling. This encompasses tools for injection molding, thermoforming, as well as jigs and fixtures. As industrial printers advance in both speed and material capabilities, 3D printing has emerged as a viable option for medium-sized production runs, particularly in the context of high-end interior build-outs.
Similarly, the medical field has witnessed the transformative potential of 3D printing, with applications ranging from the development of prosthetics to the creation of replacement organs and medical equipment. The healthcare industry is also leveraging 3D bioprinting, a groundbreaking technique used to produce living human cells or tissue for applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
The precision required in parts manufacturing necessitates adherence to high-tolerance standards. In this context, 3D printing gases such as nitrogen and argon play a crucial role by providing inert atmospheres essential for 3D product production. These gases are integral to various pre- and post-production processes, including metal powder production, storage, and postprocessing. Consequently, there is a foreseeable and substantial rise in the demand for 3D printing gases from the aerospace and healthcare industries, highlighting the indispensable role these gases play in facilitating the intricate and precise processes associated with 3D printing in these sectors.