Materialise Presents 3D Printing Trends for 2024

Leuven, Belgium – Materialise NV, a key player in the additive manufacturing industry, unveiled in a recent announcement the anticipated 3D printing trends for the upcoming year, 2024. The company, known for its reflective approach at the end of each year, highlights significant shifts and growth in the additive manufacturing sector. What sets 2024 apart is the transformative nature of 3D printing adoption, transcending mere growth to embrace shifting approaches, mindsets, markets, and limitations.

These are the trends Materialise expects to have the biggest impact in 2024:

3D printing: two distinct paths to adoption

Materialise identifies two clearly defined—and co-existing—approaches to how companies adopt 3D printing.

The rise of 3D printing’s ‘middle class’: mid-range machines for the mid-range market. Traditionally, as per the company, 3D printing offered two options: a low-budget or a top-end machine, which left a large customer segment whose needs weren't being met—until now.
Shifting mindsets: from ‘Why?’ to ‘How?’ Companies are familiar with the benefits of 3D printing; they no longer ask why they should use it. Now, they're asking how they can integrate the technology and scale up production.
Mass manufacturing meets 3D printing: will dream become reality? Inspiring innovations in markets such as China, the US, and Germany are positioning 3D printing as a potentially viable mass-manufacturing technology, aligning costs with benefits.

These trends signify the maturation of the industry, showcasing its adaptability to meet the dynamic requirements of manufacturers. Materialise encourages industry stakeholders to delve deeper into these trends by exploring their insightful video on the Materialise 3D Printing Trends for 2024.

The company welcomes the sharing of these trends and invites opinions from the community. For those interested in a more in-depth understanding, Materialise extends an invitation for follow-up interviews with their experts. As the additive manufacturing landscape continues to evolve, Materialise remains at the forefront, providing valuable insights and contributing to the industry’s ongoing transformation.

Image Source: Materialise NV