The 3D printing industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with market value projected to reach $33.9 billion by 2026. Thousands of companies around the globe offer various 3D printing services ranging from rapid prototyping, design assistance, manufacturing, and even revolutionary applications like bioprinting. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of 3D printing services by discussing some industry-leading companies that are fundamentally shaping the future of this technology.
Materialise
Materialise, a Belgium-based company, is among the pioneers in the 3D printing industry. Founded in 1990, they provide a comprehensive suite of 3D printing services, spanning from design to production. With clients in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, art, and healthcare, Materialise has established its position as a global leader. Their advanced technologies include the Mammoth Stereolithography machines that produce large 3D-printed objects up to 2 meters in size.
Formlabs
Formlabs, a US-based company, is known for its advanced stereolithography 3D printers and Digital Light Processing (DLP) technology. These printers have enabled the company to deliver high-resolution 3D printed parts in various materials, including standard resins, flexible materials, and even custom blended formulations. Formlabs caters to a diverse range of industries, such as healthcare, consumer goods, and automotive, providing rapid prototyping and end-use part production.
Shapeways
Shapeways, another US-based company, is a 3D printing marketplace and services provider that enables users to upload and print their models online. With a variety of customizable materials and finishes, Shapeways provides a unique platform for designers, artists, and hobbyists to create prototypes, kits, sculptures, jewelry, and more. Their Print API allows businesses to integrate 3D printing services directly into their existing workflows, simplifying the product development process.
3D Systems
With 30 years of experience under its belt, 3D Systems is another industry giant in the 3D printing world. The company offers a wide array of additive manufacturing solutions and services, including 3D printers, materials, design software, and on-demand part production. 3D Systems caters to various industries and has expertise in applications like injection molding, investment casting, and dental restorations.
ExOne
ExOne, founded in 2005, is a prominent provider of industrial 3D printers and services that use binder jetting technology. This process utilizes an adhesive bonding material to bind powdered materials together, which can produce complex metal, sand, or ceramic parts. ExOne's digital part materialization (DPM) services have become particularly popular in the aerospace, automotive, and defense industries due to their ability to produce metal parts with high levels of detail, strength, and functionality.
Carbon
Carbon is an innovative 3D printing company that uses a unique Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) technology to create high-quality parts. Their rapid process can produce parts up to 100 times faster than traditional methods, offering quicker prototyping and production timelines. Carbon's material library covers functional resins, elastomers, and even biocompatible medical-grade materials. Companies that partner with Carbon to use their DLS technology range from automakers to athletic gear producers.
EOS
EOS is a Germany-based manufacturer of advanced 3D printing systems and materials for industrial applications. Their focus lies on both direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) and plastic selective laser sintering (SLS) technologies, which can generate high-precision components with fine detail and complex geometries. EOS caters to an array of sectors, including aerospace, automotive, medical, and energy, among others.
Stratasys Direct
Stratasys Direct is a division of Stratasys, an industry leader in 3D printing. This branch specifically focuses on providing clients an array of 3D printing services, from design to post-processing. With a wide range of additive manufacturing technologies and advanced materials at their disposal, Stratasys Direct can deliver tailored solutions for clients across numerous sectors like aerospace, automotive, and medical.
As we have seen, the 3D printing industry encompasses a vibrant ecosystem of cutting-edge companies. Some, like Materialise, have pioneered the industry, while others like Carbon, are pushing the boundaries of what is possible with innovative technologies. With a myriad of applications, it is evident that 3D printing will continue to influence the world in new and unforeseeable ways. As more and more companies embrace 3D printing, the future of the technology looks brighter than ever.
3d printing services companies