Additive manufacturing (AM) is increasingly establishing itself as a key technology in regulated industries such as aerospace, semiconductor equipment manufacturing and the energy sector.
A growing area of application is semiconductor production and the operation of data centers. Here, additive manufacturing is increasingly being used for advanced thermal management, particularly through customized heat sinks and channels. These solutions are particularly relevant for high-performance computing applications, where increasing computing power needs to be combined with efficient thermal management. Reji Puthenveetil, Chief Commercial Officer at 3D Systems, emphasizes that AM’s flexibility allows it to uniquely address the needs of these markets.
The strength of the technology is also evident in precision markets such as aerospace. Spare parts for older machines that are required in small quantities can be produced cost-effectively and quickly. In addition, the importance of additively manufactured molds and production aids that simplify and accelerate production processes is growing.
The further development of materials plays a key role in the success of AM technology. New photopolymers in particular, which offer improved fire resistance and recyclability, are opening up new possibilities. At the same time, raster-based projection systems are gaining in importance as they work more efficiently and productively than conventional laser systems.
According to Dr. Joe Zuiker, EVP at 3D Systems, the combination of new materials and advanced software will accelerate technological progress. Integrated manufacturing operating systems also enable more efficient automation and better regulatory compliance. Additive manufacturing is thus evolving to meet the growing demands of a wide range of industries.
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