Best Automotive 3D Printing Companies in Bangalore

3D printing or additive manufacturing is one of the next-generation technologies transforming the global automotive industry.Companies and startups in the automotive industry use 3D printing machines and materials to simplify many time-consuming and cost-intensive processes.

In addition to switching from subtractive manufacturing to additive manufacturing, various 3D printing technologies enable automotive companies to modernize the designing, prototyping, testing, production, and maintenance of motor vehicles.

Most automotive companies these days save resources by 3D-printing end parts instead of producing parts and components. Likewise, many companies have already started selling 3D-printed cars and supercars in high-income countries.

In 2022, India emerged as the fourth-largest automotive market in the world. At present, Bangalore is home to many international automotive and automobile companies. The automotive companies in Bangalore leverage 3D printing technologies to become a part of Industry 4.0.

Some of these companies have built in-house 3D printing infrastructure, while others outsource 3D designing and 3D printing services. Many 3D printing companies have built a reputation by designing and printing parts for leading automotive companies.

Hence, every automotive company now has the option to choose from many automotive 3D printing companies in Bangalore. We are making it easier for you to get superior and customized automotive 3D printing solutions in Bangalore by comparing some of these reputable companies and startups.

Shortlisting 7 of the Best Automotive 3D Printing Companies in Bangalore

1. Aurum3D

Aurum3D is one of the local automotive 3D printing companies in Bangalore. But it has built a reputation by providing online 3D designing and 3D printing services to automotive companies across regions. The automotive 3D printing services provided by Aurum3D help manufacturers launch superior motor vehicles by accelerating prototyping, customization, and production.

Also, many automotive companies partner with Aurum3D to supply parts or components to customers on demand by getting FDM, SLS, or SLA 3D printing services. Aurum3D has been impressing automotive companies by reducing component weight, producing parts for vintage motor vehicles, and supplying spare parts on demand.

2. Rapidproto Labs

This 3D printing company's factory and office are located in Tamil Nadu. But Rapidproto Labs has been providing online 3D printing services to automotive companies in Bangalore. It has produced parts for automotive companies using FDM, SLS, and SLA 3D printing technologies.

Rapid3D delivers parts and conceptual models to clients in about 2 days. Hence, it becomes easier for automotive companies to validate and refine prototypes regularly. At the same time, the delivery time helps automotive companies to supply parts or components to customers on demand.

3. Think3D

The factory and corporate office of Think3D are located in Hyderabad. But Think3D has been providing 3D designing and 3D printing services to automotive companies in Bangalore through its website. Many automotive companies in Bangalore partner with Think3D to leverage its robust infrastructure consisting of 69 in-house machines.

Think3D meets the automotive 3D printing needs of clients using FDM, SLS, SLA, DMLS, and MJP 3D printing machines. In addition to deploying technically-qualified teams, Think3D focuses extensively on protecting customers’ designs and data. The company has produced fixtures, tooling, and spare parts for leading automotive companies in Bangalore.

4. 3Ding

This Bangalore-based 3D printing company meets the additive manufacturing needs of automotive companies in two district ways. 3Ding enables automotive companies in Bangalore to produce parts and components on their own by renting the right 3D printing machines.

Also, automotive companies in Bangalore have the option to avail themselves of the 3D designing and 3D printing services provided by 3Ding. Many automotive companies choose 3Ding to produce parts and prototypes in-house without escalating 3D printing costs.

5. Precious3D

This Chennai-based company has been providing online 3D printing services to companies from many sectors including automotive. Precious3D has produced parts for automotive companies using FDM, SLS, and SLA 3D printing technologies.

In addition to improving 3D printing quality consistently, Precious3D focuses on reducing 3D printing time and costs. Leading automotive companies in Bangalore partner with Precious3D to produce automobile parts for shop floors on demand.

6.Wipro3D

Its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities differentiate Wipro3D from other automotive 3D printing companies in Bangalore. The Bangalore-based company has been providing 3D designing, printing, and post-processing services to many automotive companies. Also, it delivers superior parts and components through a comprehensive test and validation process.

Wipro3D aims to make metal 3D printing machines and materials affordable and accessible for companies in various sectors, including automotive and automobile. It makes it easier for automotive companies to create conceptual models and product prototypes by offering additive consultation services.

7. Makenica

This 3D printing company has offices in several locations in Bangalore. Makenica has been providing plastic and metal 3D printing companies to automotive companies through its website. Automotive companies have the option to choose from a wide range of 3D printing machines and materials – FDM, SLS, SLA, MJF, PolyJet, and metal.

Makenica ensures the dimensional accuracy of 3D-printed parts by keeping in place a five-step quality-checking process. It further focuses extensively on keeping customers’ designs and data safe. Automotive companies in Bangalore partner with Makenica to get parts produced using a network of over 2000 3D printing machines.

Conclusion

While outsourcing 3D designing or 3D printing activities, your company has the option to choose from many automotive 3D printing companies in Bangalore. Each company allows you to choose from a wide range of 3D printing technologies and manufacturers.

But you should remember that these companies provide online automotive 3D printing company. Hence, you can partner with one of the best automotive 3D printing companies in Bangalore regardless of the location of their 3D printing facilities.

Outsource Metal 3D Printing in Bangalore

The 3D printing technologies used by individuals and enterprises in Bangalore can be broadly divided into two categories – plastic/polymer and metal. Metal 3D printing technologies enable users to produce parts using high-performance metal alloys.

Many enterprises use metal 3D printing machines to produce strong, custom, and complex parts using aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, chrome, cobalt, or Inconel. But the metal 3D printing process is more complex and time-consuming than the plastic 3D printing process.

Also, Metal 3D printers are much more expensive than 3D printers driven by popular plastic 3D printing technologies like Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Stereolithography (SLA).

Large enterprises in Bangalore facilitate metal 3D printing by investing in expensive metal 3D printers and deploying an in-house team of skilled technicians. But most enterprises outsource metal 3D printing in Bangalore to overcome constraints related to skill and resources.

Why Do Companies And Startups Outsource Metal 3d Printing In Bangalore?

Curtail Upfront and Ongoing Costs

The price of plastic 3D printing machines ranges from $600 to $4000. Enterprises can invest in different plastic 3D printing machines without escalating upfront investment. But the prices of metal 3D printing machines vary from $50000 to $1 million.

Also, enterprises have to incur recurring expenses to keep the metal 3D printer clean and boost their performance. Most companies and startups in Bangalore lack the funds to purchase expensive metal 3D printers. They outsource metal 3D printing to avoid upfront and ongoing expenses.

No Need to Build an In-House Team

As noted earlier, metal 3D printers are more complex than plastic 3D printers. Enterprises must deploy skilled technicians to operate metal 3D printing machines efficiently and safely. Also, they need dedicated staff to clean and maintain the printers after each 3D print job.

Outsourcing metal 3D printing helps businesses eliminate the need to hire and train staff. The leading metal 3D printing service providers in Bangalore deploy technicians with both experience and expertise. They use their expertise to improve part quality without increasing printing time and costs.

Mix and Match Metal 3D Printing Technologies

While printing a metal part, one has the option to choose from different metal 3D printing technologies, including Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Electron Beam Melting (EBM), Direct Energy Deposition (DED), and Binder Jetting. Each of these metal 3D printing technologies has its pros and cons.

Hence, an enterprise can produce high-quality parts only using the right metal 3D printing technology. It needs to invest in multiple metal 3D printers to leverage the desired technology on demand. But an enterprise can produce parts using the desired technology by outsourcing metal 3D printing in Bangalore.

Experiment with Different Materials

While planning a metal 3D printing project, one has the option to choose from a wide range of materials - aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, chrome, and cobalt. Some metal 3D printing machines support multiple materials while others support a specific material. For instance, DMLS systems support most of the metal 3D printing materials available in the market.

But DMSL systems are more expensive than other metal 3D printers. Also, one needs to deploy skilled technicians to monitor the printing process and perform post-processing activities. Enterprises can easily experiment with many metal 3D printing materials by outsourcing metal 3D printing in Bangalore.

Expand Build Size

The small build size is often cited as a major shortcoming of metal 3D printers. Most metal 3D printing systems available in the market are designed with small print chambers. Hence, they are effective in producing small parts. Engineers produce multiple parts using metal 3D printers and integrate them after the printing process to meet the requirements of large projects.

An enterprise can accelerate the production of large parts only by investing in multiple metal 3D printers and deploying additional technicians. But it can reduce the time and cost significantly by outsourcing metal 3D printing in Bangalore. There are many companies that have set up large facilities with multiple material 3D printing machines. Also, they speed up printing and post-processing by deploying in-house technicians.

Overcome Metal 3D Printing Problems

Cracking and warpage are some of the major issues related to metal 3D printing. Engineers can prevent warpage only by ensuring that the metal 3D printing process starts accurately. Likewise, they can prevent cracking from occurring by monitoring the process as the melted metal solidifies.

The leading metal 3D printing service providers in Bangalore monitor the metal 3D printing process by deploying dedicated technicians. Also, they fix various types of defects by implementing a slew of metal 3D printing best practices. Hence, enterprises receive parts without any defects.

Improve Part Quality

Post-processing is an integral part of the metal 3D printing process. The post-processing activities differ depending on the nature and size of the 3D-printed part. But engineers often perform a variety of post-processing activities – sanding, water jetting, chemical rising, and air/heat drying – to improve the metal part.

Once the part is printed, engineers need to remove the support structure using the right products. Also, they need to achieve the predefined surface finish by smothering the surface. Enterprises outsource metal 3D printing in Bangalore to get parts optimized by performing the required post-processing activities.

Conclusion

There are many companies and startups that offer metal 3D printing services in Bangalore at competitive rates. Some of these providers have set up metal 3D printing facilities in Bangalore, while others offer online metal 3D printing services to companies and startups in Bangalore.

These metal 3D printing service providers allow customers to customize the metal 3D printing process by choosing from a wide range of machines and materials. Also, they focus on reducing metal 3D printing time and cost without affecting the part quality.

Hence, both individuals and enterprises can produce complex and custom parts on demand by outsourcing metal 3D printing in Bangalore. But the metal 3D printing service providers differ from each other in several aspects, including industry expertise and infrastructure.

Hence, decision-makers must compare these providers using a variety of parameters. The comparison will help them partner with a reliable and reputable company while outsourcing metal 3D printing in Bangalore.

DMLS 3D Printing: A Quick Guide

3D printing technologies enable enterprises from various industries to produce production parts and functional prototypes without investing in extra resources. But engineers have to use specific materials according to their choice of 3D printing technologies. Direct Metal Laser Sintering enables manufacturers to produce spare parts and prototypes using a variety of metals and metal alloys.

What is DMLS 3D Printing?

According to ScienceDirect, “Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) is an AM technique for metal 3D printing. In this process, the metal powder (20 μm diameter), free of binder or fluxing agent, is completely melted by the scanning of a high-power laser beam. The resulting part has properties like the original material.”

DMLS is an industrial 3D printing technology. It belongs to the category of power bed fusion category of additive manufacturing technologies. It produces parts by melting metal powders or metal alloy powders completely using a high-power laser beam.

DMLS creates opportunities for engineers to print strong and durable functional parts using a wide range of metal powders and metal alloy powders.The metal powders differentiate DMLS from other 3D printing technologies.

What Metal Powders are used in DMLS 3D Printing Process?

While planning a DMLS 3D printing project, engineers have the option to choose from a variety of metal and metal alloy powders. They can choose from aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, cobalt chrome, or managing steel.

The metal material options make it engineers to produce parts using the appropriate metal. For instance, an engineer can create parts effective in resisting acid and corrosion by choosing stainless steel. At the same time, she can opt for aluminum to produce metal parts effective in resisting stress.

How Does DMLS 3D Printing Work?

Like other 3D printing technologies, DMLS printers create parts layer by layer based on digital 3D files. Engineers refine the digital 3D model using appropriate software to generate code that can be understood by the metal 3D printer. After preparing the digital 3D file, engineers fill the DMLS printer hopper with a specific metal or metal alloy powder.

The printer uses heaters to bring the metal powder up to the sintering range of the metal allow. It subsequently starts dispensing thin layers of the metal powder onto the build platform. The high-power laser form solid structures by sintering the metal powder selectively. The DMLS 3D printer continues dispensing and sintering the metal powder till the part is produced completely.

Once the physical printing process is over, engineers allow the part to cool fully. They remove the loose metal powder from the DMLS printer as well as remove the support before starting post-processing activities. They refine and treat the 3D-printed part by performing activities like surface finishing, machining, and heat treatment. DMLS 3D printing technology delivers metal parts in about 7 to 10 days.

What are the Common Applications/Use Cases of DMLS 3D Printing Technology?

Replacing Conventional Metalworking Technologies

Conventional metalworking technologies are not effective in producing parts with complex geometries. Many manufacturers invest in DMLS 3D printers to print complex parts directly using high-performance metals and metal alloys.

Producing Strong and Lightweight Parts

DMLS 3D printing machines produce single-component metals by melting metal powders completely. The single-component metal is effective in producing parts and prototypes that are strong, durable, and lightweight. Engineers can easily reduce the strength or weight of a spare part using the appropriate metal powder.

Improving Part’s Functional Performance

While using subtractive manufacturing methods, engineers have to focus extensively on manufactur ability. The focus on manufactur ability impacts the spare part’s functional performance negatively. DMLS 3D printing enables engineers to focus on improving a part’s functional performance instead of manufactur ability.

Reducing Part Count

At present, DMLS is used widely by companies in the aerospace and automotive industries. These companies leverage this 3D printing technologies for a variety of purposes, including weight reduction, complex part production, and mass customization. At the same time, DMLS creates opportunities for them to reduce the number of parts through integration and optimization.

Facilitating Customization and Personalization

Companies in the medicine and healthcare industries use DMLS 3D printing to produce bridges, crowns, and prosthetics. DMLS 3D printers create opportunities for medical practitioners to create custom prosthetics for individual patients. At the same time, they can use high-strength metals to produce prosthetics that patients can use over a longer period of time.

Providing Freedom of Design

DMLS, like other powder bed 3D printing technologies, provides freedom of design to engineers. As engineers are not required to use multiple tools and fixtures, they can produce new parts by experimenting with complex designs and innovative design rules. Also, they can customize existing designs and models to boost the functional performance of various parts.

What are the Pros and Cons of DMLS 3D Printing?

Pros

• Direct metal printing keeps the mechanical properties of the metal intact.
• Engineers can choose from a wide range of metals and metal alloys.
• Engineers can produce strong and durable metal parts without using additional tooling and fixture.
• Metal powders help engineers produce parts with dimensional accuracy and complex geometries.
• Options to produce parts with a smoother finish using finer metal powder.
• Manufacturers can control 3D printing costs by reusing metal powders.

Cons

• One of the complex industrial 3D printing technologies.
• Not popular with students and hobbyists due to the high cost of DMLS 3D printing machines and materials.
• Does not support large build volumes like other industrial 3D printing technologies.
• Engineers can produce parts and prototypes in weeks using this slow additive manufacturing technology.

Please read our blog “DMLS Advantages and Disadvantages” to know the pros and cons of this industrial 3D printing technology in detail.

Conclusion

Unlike other 3D printing technologies, DMLS facilitates the production of metal parts and prototypes. At present, DMLS 3D printing technology is used widely by enterprises from various industries. But the industrial 3D printing technology has its pros and cons. Leading 3D printing service providers overcome the limitation of DMLS 3D printing by monitoring the printing process and adopting several best practices.

References

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/direct-metal-laser-sintering

https://www.protolabs.co.uk/services/3d-printing/direct-metal-laser-sintering/

https://all3dp.com/2/direct-metal-laser-sintering-dmls-simply-explained/

https://www.rapiddmls.com/what-is-dmls/

How to Select the Best FDM 3D Printing Company?

While planning manufacturing projects, you have the option to choose from many additive 3D printing technologies. Some of these 3D printing technologies are more complex than others. Likewise, some 3D printing technologies are more expensive than others.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is one of the simple, fast, and cost-efficient 3D printing technologies.You can leverage this mature and popular technology to produce parts of varying types and sizes. Also, you have the option to choose from a wide range of materials and filaments for FDM 3D printers.

Many companies and startups help you leverage this industrial-grade 3D printing technology in a variety of ways.Some of these enterprises supply FDM 3D printing machines, filaments, and spare parts. At the same time, some of these companies provide FDM 3D printing services.

Hence, you can shortlist many FDM 3D printing companies and startups according to your predefined project needs. However, you can partner with the best FDM 3D printing company only by looking for these important things in the shortlisted companies.

9 Things to Look for in the Best FDM 3D Printing Company

1. Part or Prototype

You improve the quality of the part only by choosing the right 3D printing machine and filaments. You can choose the right FDM 3D printer using important parameters like build volume, layer length, and dimensional accuracy.

Likewise, you need to choose the FDM 3D printing materials with specific mechanical properties. Before comparing and shortlisting FDM 3D printing companies, you must define the requirements of the 3D printing projects clearly.

2. FDM 3D Printing Machine

The leading 3D printing companies set up facilities with multiple FDM 3D printers. Also, many 3D printing companies supply different types of FDM 3D printers. Most FDM 3D printers available in the market use Cartesian technology. These 3D printers support smaller build volumes.

But you also have the option to choose FDM 3D printers with robotic hands that can produce large structures like residential and commercial buildings. That is why; you need to invest in an FDM 3D printer that meets the needs of your current and future projects.

3. FDM 3D Printing Materials

The materials for FDM 3D printers can be broadly divided into three categories – consumer, prosumer, and industrial. Industrial filaments are used widely by enterprises due to their superior quality. At the same time, consumer filaments are easier to use than prosumer materials.

The leading FDM 3D printing service providers allow you to choose from a variety of thermoplastic filaments according to your project needs. But you need to purchase the appropriate filaments when you opt for in-house 3D printing.

4. Designing Assistance

FDM 3D printers create parts based on digital 3D models. You can create digital 3D models using CAD software. But 3D printers require you to describe the part’s surface geometry in Standard Tessellation Language (STL) language.

You can create a CAD file and convert it into an STL file using several software applications. But you should check if the best FDM 3D printing company provides 3D designing and modeling services if you are not familiar with the software.

5. Industry Expertise

Most companies and startups provide online FDM 3D printing services. But some of the companies have built a reputation by providing FDM 3D printing services to companies in the aerospace, automotive, engineering, and medical industries.

If you are planning to 3D-print a niche product it becomes essential to consider the provider’s industry expertise and resources. In addition to evaluating the niche products 3D-printed by the company, you should ascertain its industry reputation by reading customer testimonials and reviews.

6. Lead Time

You can buy FDM 3D printing machines and filaments as well as get FDM 3D printing services over the internet. But the amount of time required for receiving the machines or 3D-printed part varies across 3D printing companies.

While comparing the best FDM 3D printing companies, you must focus extensively on the lead time. It is always important to finalize a company that helps you meet project deadlines by shortening the lead time.

7. Printing Costs

You have to incur both upfront and ongoing expenses when you decide to 3D-print the part on your own. In addition to purchasing an FDM 3D printing machine and filaments, you have to spend money on post-processing activities.

But you can curtail project costs drastically by opting for professional FDM 3D printing services. That is why; the project budget will have a direct impact on the selection of the best FDM 3D printing company. You have to partner with a company without breaking the preset project budget.

8. Customer Support

Customer support is an essential aspect of the FDM 3D printing services. While availing of FDM 3D printing services, you can customize the service by interacting with the provider’s customer service team. Likewise, you need after-sales services to use the FDM 3D printing service in the longer run.

That is why; you must compare the customer support provided by the shortlisted FDM 3D printing company. In addition to checking the nature of after-sales service, you should check if you can contact the company’s customer service executives through multiple communication channels.

9. Business Relationship

You can avail of FDM 3D printing services on demand for a single project or multiple projects. But you need to form a long-term partnership with the best FDM 3D printing company if you are switching from subtractive manufacturing to additive manufacturing.

You must check the reputation and reliability of the company to ensure that your partner will meet your organization’s evolving 3D printing needs over a period of time.

Conclusion

While planning an additive manufacturing project, you have the option to choose from many FDM 3D printing companies and startups. But you can improve the resolution, dimensional accuracy, and surface finish of a part or prototype only by partnering with the best FDM 3D printing company.

Hence, you should shortlist the FDM 3D printing companies and startups according to your precise project requirements. At the same time, it is important to consider these things or parameters to compare the shortlisted companies and select the best company for your project.

References

https://www.sculpteo.com/blog/2015/07/22/3d-printing-marketplace/

https://manufactur3dmag.com/how-to-choose-the-right-3d-printing-service/

https://www.weerg.com/en/global/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-the-best-material-for-fdm-3d-printing

https://www.raise3d.com/academy/how-to-choose-a-3d-printer-2022-3d-printer-buying-guide/

How to Select the Best 3D Printing Service Provider?

3D printing technologies create opportunities for enterprises to save time and resources by facilitating rapid prototyping and low-volume production. Likewise, students, hobbyists, and engineers leverage 3D printing technologies to unleash their creativity and showcase their challenges.

But both individuals and enterprises have to overcome several challenges to make 3D printing projects successful. The high cost of machines, limited availability of materials, and complex post-processing requirements are often cited as some of the major 3D printing challenges.

3D printing service providers help both enterprises and individuals overcome these major 3D printing challenges. They help enterprise clients to overcome the lack of in-house additive manufacturing resources.At the same time, they help individuals produce a variety of items without investing in 3D printing machines and materials.

The providers customize 3D printing services according to precise project needs by combining the appropriate 3D printing machine and materials. Also, they improve print quality and ensure dimensional accuracy by deploying trained and experienced professionals. But companies vary from each other in several aspects, including the quality of 3D printing services.

You can make an additive manufacturing project successful only by partnering with the best 3D printing service provider. It is always important to shortlist companies that offer customized 3D printing services. However, you must compare the companies using a slew of parameters to select the 3D printing service provider for your next project.

9 Parameters You Should Use to Select the Best 3D Printing Service Provider

1. 3D Printing Technology

While planning a 3D printing project, you have the option to choose from many 3D printing technologies. But you must keep in mind the pros and cons of individual additive manufacturing technologies to choose the right 3D printing technology for your project.

Most 3D printing service providers allow you to choose from multiple 3D printing technologies – FDM, SLS, and SLA. Hence, you need to shortlist companies and startups that offer your choice of 3D printing service.

2. Material Options

According to your choice of 3D printing technologies, you can choose from many materials and filaments. For instance, you have to choose from different forms of powdered materials when you opt for SLS 3D printing.

Most 3D printing service providers allow clients to choose from a wide range of products while sharing project requirements. Hence, you should compare the materials or filaments supported by the provider according to your project needs.

3. Design Assistance

3D printers produce parts based on digital files created using 3D modeling software. You can use an open-source or licensed 3D modeling software to convert your ideas or needs into a digital file and share it with the 3D printing service provider.

But you need to opt for a provider that offers 3D designing and printing services if you are not proficient in 3D modeling software. The design assistance is essential to convert your ideas or requirements into a digital 3D model by experienced technicians.

4. Industry Expertise

You can ignore this parameter if you are getting 3D printing services to produce gift items, home decors, and similar non-industrial items. But you must use industry expertise as a key parameter to compare 3D printing service providers for industrial projects.

The expertise will make the provider deliver high-quality parts or prototypes that meet your project needs precisely. Hence, you should choose a provider that has experience and expertise in providing 3D printing services to enterprises in your sector.

5. Data Security

3D printing service providers require you to share your design or ideas needs in the form of STL files. You need to upload the STL file to their websites to convey your precise 3D printing needs. While uploading the STL file they allow you to specify covey various project needs by choosing the appropriate option.

But you can protect your ideas only by choosing a 3D printing service provider that uses data security protocols and advanced data encryption technologies. It is always important to evaluate the measures taken by the company to safeguard your ideas or inventions.

6. Lead Time

Some 3D printing technologies are faster than others. Likewise, certain 3D printing technologies require elaborate and complex post-processing. 3D printing service providers determine lead time based on specific project needs. You should choose a provider that delivers the 3D-printed part or product according to the project deadline set by you.

7. Price

Leading companies and startups these days offer customized 3D printing services at competitive prices. But you must remember that certain 3D printing filaments are more expensive than others. Also, post-processing activities often escalate 3D printing costs. You should compare the quotes received from multiple 3D printing service providers and compare the quotes according to your project budget.

8. Duration of Partnership

Individuals often need 3D printing services for a single project. But enterprises need 3D printing services regularly to create parts and prototypes. If you are availing of 3D printing services for a single project, you should not consider the reputation of the 3D printer service providers.

But you must consider the quality of 3D-printed parts as well as the reputation of the provider if you are planning to outsource 3D printing activities or avail of 3D printing services regularly.

9. Customer Testimonials

You can assess a provider’s reputation and the quality of parts produced by him based on information collected from various online sources. But you can assess the reputation and quality accurately only by reading customer testimonials. You can use testimonials and reviews posted by the customers as a key parameter to find the best 3D printing service provider for your project.

Conclusion

The steady growth of the global market for 3D printing products and services creates opportunities for you to choose from many 3D printing companies and startups. But you can make your project successful only by partnering with the right 3D printing service provider.

While shortlisting 3D printing service providers, you must use the predefined project requirements as the primary parameter. But you should use multiple parameters to find a provider that customizes3D printing services as well as focuses on improving the quality of the 3D printed parts.

References:

https://www.statista.com/statistics/315386/global-market-for-3d-printers/

https://manufactur3dmag.com/how-to-choose-the-right-3d-printing-service/

https://www.enggtechnique.com/resource/blog-detail/how-to-choose-right-3d-printing-services-in-india

https://www.enggtechnique.com/resource/blog-detail/how-to-choose-an-efficient-3d-printing-service-provider-in-india

3D Printing Business in India

India is one of the countries where additive manufacturing or technology is still at a nascent stage. But market forecast reports suggest that the 3D printing market in India has been growing steadily. Also, the “National Strategy on Additive Manufacturing (AM)” announced by the Government of India aims to drive and accelerate the growth of the 3D printing market in India.

In India, 3D printing businesses have been contributing immensely towards making various additive manufacturing technologies accessible to individuals and enterprises. They make it easier for clients to 3D-print parts and prototypes by supplying 3D printers, spare parts, and materials. Also, they help clients overcome constraints related to skills and resources by providing customized 3D printing services.

Every 3D printing business in India nowadays can leverage many business opportunities. Likewise, they can achieve and sustain profitable growth by choosing from various revenue models. We can divide various 3D printing companies in India into multiple categories based on revenue models. The categorization will help us understand how a 3D printing business in India contributes to popularizing additive manufacturing technologies.

How Does a 3D Printing Business in India Generate Recurring Revenue?

Manufacturing 3D Printers

Enterprises from various sectors invest in industrial 3D printers to facilitate rapid prototyping and low-volume production. Likewise, individuals purchase benchtop or desktop 3D printers to convert innovative ideas into solid three-dimensional objects.

The growing demand for industrial and desktop 3D printers creates opportunities for many companies to manufacture 3D printing machines. At present, many companies in India are manufacturing 3D printers to cater varying needs of individual and enterprise customers.

Manufacturing 3D Printing Materials

Engineers these days have the option to choose from a wide range of 3D printing filaments. For instance, they can choose from a variety of thermoplastic filaments while using an FDM 3D printer. Likewise, SLS 3D printers allow them to choose from a wide variety of powdered filaments.

Engineers always focus on combining the right 3D printing machine and filament to produce a part or prototype accurately. Many 3D printing businesses cater to varying project needs by manufacturing both conventional and new-age 3D printing materials.

Supplying 3D Printers and Materials

Many companies in India these days generate recurring revenue by reselling and supplying 3D printers and materials. Some of these businesses produce 3D printers and filaments on their own, while others supply machines and materials manufactured by leading companies.

They further supply machines and materials to customers across regions through their websites. In many Indian cities, customers lack the option to find local shops dealing in 3D printing machines and filaments. Hence, they rely on such resellers and dealers to get the desired 3D printer and material delivered in a few days.

Providing 3D Printing Services

Most Indian lack the technical knowledge and expertise required to 3D-print items on their own. Likewise, enterprises in India outsource 3D printing and rapid prototyping processes to save time and curtail costs. Many businesses in India generate recurring revenue by providing various 3D printing services to individuals and enterprises.

They allow clients to share their needs in the form of a CAD file. While uploading the CAD file, the customer also has the option to mention specific printing instructions as well as choose the 3D printing technology and material. Many businesses these days deliver FDM, SLS, and SLA 3D printing services to customers across regions through their websites. Also, they boost print quality and reduce lead time by implementing many 3D printing best practices.

Supplying Accessories and Spare Parts

While using a 3D printer, users need specific accessories to boost the printing process and print quality. Likewise, they need spare parts on time to use the 3D printer efficiently and continuously. Many 3D printing businesses in India generate revenue by supplying accessories and spare parts to customers through their websites.

They make it easier for customers to use 3D printers by supplying spare parts and accessories in a short amount of time. Some of these businesses deal in accessories and spare parts manufactured by international companies, while others supply items manufactured in India.

Selling 3D-Printed Items

3D printing technologies foster innovation and encourage creativity by converting digital files into three-dimensional items. A person can use the right 3D printer to create solid and durable items with intricate designs and complex geometries.

Many entrepreneurs these days leverage additive manufacturing technologies to sell innovative and customized home decors and gift items through their websites. In addition to allowing customers to choose from a slew of 3D-printed items, they enable customers to convert their own designs into 3D-printed items using the right machine and filament.

Offering Courses and Training Programs

In addition to making conventional production methods obsolete, 3D printing technologies create new career opportunities across industries. Many engineering students these days learn additive manufacturing to create innovative parts and prototypes efficiently.

Likewise, many hobbyists and enthusiasts look for options to learn the next-generation technologies. Many 3D printing businesses these days generate revenue by offering 3D printing courses and organizing 3D printing workshops.

Conclusion

Every 3D printing business in India can generate recurring revenue by leveraging various business opportunities and revenue models. But there are many businesses that increase revenue by leveraging multiple opportunities. For instance, many 3D printing companies in India these days provide 3D printing services, along with supplying 3D printing machines and materials.

While exploring business opportunities, entrepreneurs and business owners must not forget that additive manufacturing technologies have been evolving consistently. They can sustain growth in the long run only by allowing clients to choose from a wide range of 3D printing products and services. Also, they must beat the competition by meeting changes in customers’ needs and expectations.

References

https://manufactur3dmag.com/different-3d-printing-business-opportunities-india/

https://3digiprints.com/3D-Help/business-ideas-in-india.php

SLS 3D Printing Applications

You can create a solid three-dimensional object from three-dimensional digital models using several additive manufacturing or 3D printing technologies. Each 3D printing technology creates the object, model, part, or product physically in a specific way. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is one of the mature and widely used 3D printing technologies.

As the name suggests, this additive manufacturing technology creates solid parts by fusing or sintering nylon powder selectively using a high-power laser. Many engineers opt for SLS 3D printing to produce strong and durable parts with complex geometries. Also, they can enhance the look and feel of the 3D-printed structures during post-processing through sanding, dyeing, and smoothing.

Both companies and startups have been transforming and revolutionizing SLS 3D printing by fostering innovation and research. Some companies replace standard CO₂ laser with new-age fiber laser to make the SLS 3D printer effective in sintering powder more quickly by increasing power density. Likewise, some companies are finetuning SLS 3D printers to reduce material wastage by using one powder as the primary material and another powder as supporting material.

According to Wikipedia, “SLS technology is in wide use at many industries around the world due to its ability to easily make complex geometries with little to no added manufacturing effort. Its most common application is in prototype parts early in the design cycle such as for investment casting patterns, automotive hardware, and wind tunnel models.”

At present, SLS is used commonly by enterprises to facilitate rapid prototyping and production of functional parts. But the SLS 3D printing applications and use cases vary across industries. We can summarize the applications of this additive manufacturing technology based on use cases created by enterprises from various sectors.

Understanding SLS 3D Printing Applications across Industries and Verticals

Manufacturing Industry

One of the key advantages of SLS 3D printing technology is design freedom. Unlike traditional production methods, SLS 3D printing helps engineers to design products with unusual shapes and complex geometries without escalating production time and cost. Manufacturing companies leverage the design freedom to produce moving parts and interlocking parts. Also, this additive manufacturing technology is effective in facilitating small-batch manufacturing.

Aerospace Industry

SLS 3D printers use a flexible, durable, and lightweight material like nylon. Many engineers experiment with various forms of nylon to 3D-print parts tailored for flights and space travels. Also, they opt for SLS 3D printing for projects that require a few items like antennas, drones, aircraft parts, and satellites on demand. NASA has been incorporating 3D printed parts into aircraft engines to curtail both production time and cost.

Automotive Industry

The automotive industry has been using SLS 3D printers to create prototypes as well as produce functional parts. The automotive companies leverage key advantages of SLS 3D printing technology – speed, accuracy, reliability, and durability – to produce end-user components on demand.

Many companies use this additive manufacturing technology to replace obsolete components of vintage cars. 3D scanners make it easier for them to replicate the obsolete components exactly in the form of a digital 3D model. An SLS 3D printer can produce the out-of-stock components physically from the digital files.

Mechanical Industry

Mechanical engineers use SLS 3D printers to create innovative devices, components, and systems by combing principles of physics and mathematics in a variety of ways. Unlike other 3D printing technologies, SLS makes it easier for them to convert out-of-box ideas into components and devices by providing design freedom. Also, the components printed with SLS 3D printers meet varying mechanical requirements through high-dimensional accuracy.

Medical Industry

The medical industry leverages SLS 3D printing to produce complex medical devices accurately and precisely. As mentioned earlier, SLS 3D printers can produce durable and strong items with complex geometries and varying forms. Medical device manufacturers leverage these benefits to produce patient-specific prosthetics and orthotics. They further explore ways to optimize SLS 3D printing technology to fabricate human organs with 100% accuracy and authenticity.

Footwear Industry

SLS reduces 3D printing time by several hours. The reduced printing time makes it easier for footwear companies to produce a variety of insoles according to the varying needs of customers. SLS 3D printing is used widely by footwear companies to produce molded insoles, comfort insoles, and custom orthotics tailored for individual patients. Footwear companies use thermoplastic or nylon as the primary material to print customized insoles that provide support to and ease the pain of patients with flat feet and other foot disorders.

Several market analysis reports forecast the consistent growth of the global SLS 3D printing market over the next few years. Hence, the popularity of SLS 3D printing will remain intact despite the growing popularity of consumer and desktop 3D printing. Enterprises will leverage this mature and reliable additive manufacturing technology by creating new use cases regularly. Also, they will contribute towards evolving SLS 3D printing through research and development (R&D).

About Aurum3D

Aurum3D is one of the leading 3D printing companies in Bangalore. We have been working with various new-age areas like Drone manufacturing and Electric vehicle manufacturers in multiple areas like prototyping and custom 3D printing. You can get in touch with us for your custom requirements in electric vehicle manufacturing.

References:

https://www.shapeways.com/blog/archives/41152-top-applications-for-sls-3d-printing.html

Top 3D Printing Blogs to Follow in 2022

3D printing or additive manufacturing has been transforming various industries by facilitating rapid prototyping, low-volume production, and manufacturing cost reduction. A steady increase is being noted in the number of students, hobbyists, and professionals using 3D printers to produce solid three-dimensional items from digital models.

But no person can 3D print an object, model, or part accurately and precisely without combining the right 3D printing technology and filament. Also, she needs to focus on three important stages in the 3D printing process – pre-processing, building, and post-processing.

In addition to supplying 3D printers and providing 3D printing services, many companies passionately believe in popularizing 3D printing technologies. They publish blogs regularly to make beginners and enthusiasts familiar with various 3D printing technologies and materials.

We have shortlisted some of the top 3D printing blogs using multiple parameters. The list of top 3D printing blogs will help beginners and enthusiasts to understand widely used 3D printing technologies Also, they can leverage the information to convert their innovative ideas into three-dimensional objects by managing 3D printing projects successfully.

Top 3D Printing Blogs Enthusiasts and Learners Should Follow in 2022

3D Printing Industry

The global media company has been publishing blogs regularly to make enthusiasts aware of 3D printing and 3D scanning technologies. The online resources created by 3D Printing Industry helps readers keep track of the latest development in 3D printing and 3D scanning. In addition to supporting a dedicated team of content writers, the company has been posting content created by external contributors. Hence, a reader can get updated information about 3D printing and 3D scanning technologies by following this popular 3D printing blog.

3DPrint.com

The dedicated news portal helps professionals and enthusiasts to access the latest news related to the 3D printing industry. A reader can follow 3DPrint.com to know the latest information related to 3D printing, 3D scanning, 3D software, and 3D filaments. Also, the news portal delivers hands-on information about various industries using 3D printing technologies. A subscriber can follow this 3D printing blog to access additive manufacturing industry news and stories on a regular basis.

3D-Print.today

The online news magazine delivers the latest news and up-to-date information about the 3D printing industry. It enables readers to get up-to-date 3D printing industry information in various forms – articles, blogs, videos, fresh news, and opinions. A reader can follow 3D-Print.today to get both detailed information and the latest news about various 3D printing technologies. Also, she can leverage the information to buy the right 3D printer and 3D printing filaments for various projects.

Develop 3D

A reader has the option to choose from both print and digital editions of Develop3D Magazine. The online magazine helps readers to access the latest news and updated information about 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and CAD. The readers can access the online edition of the magazine free of cost. Also, they can visit the website regularly to get news, reviews, features, opinion, and videos. They can further leverage the reviews written by seasoned professionals to make informed decisions while planning and managing 3D printing projects.

Aurum3D

Aurum3D is one of the major 3D printing companies in Bangalore. The team at Aurum3D has expertise in providing 3D printing services to clients from many industries. Also, the professionals are passionate about making 3D printing technologies accessible to students, hobbyists, and enthusiasts. A reader can follow the popular 3D printingblos to understand the pros and cons of widely used 3D printing technologies. The blogs help readers to choose the right 3D printing technology and material for their projects. Also, readers can read the blogs regularly to track emerging 3D printing trends and learn new use cases being created across industries.

Tech Crunch

The online newspaper has built a reputation by publishing content related to technologies and entrepreneurship. Tech Crunch has been helping entrepreneurs and startups to leverage cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing by publishing blogs, newsletters, audio, and videos. An enthusiast can follow this popular 3D printing blog to access multi-format digital content created by experienced writers and contributors. The blogs posted on Tech Crunch help readers to differentiate between various 3D printing technologies and filaments based on varying project needs.

3D Platform

The 3D Platform has been popularizing additive manufacturing technologies by supplying 3D printers, accessories, spare parts, and spare parts. The professionals at 3D Platform aim to solve common 3D printing problems by publishing insightful blogs regularly. A reader can follow this blog to learn some of the widely used 3D printing technologies as well as common 3D printing problems. At the same time, these blogs help readers to buy the right 3D printer and use the 3D printer to produce a variety of items on their own.

3D Systems

In addition to providing 3D printing services, 3DSystems has been manufacturing 3D printers, 3D scanners, and 3D printing filaments. At the same time, 3DSystems is passionate about making enthusiasts and learners familiar with various 3D printing technologies. A reader can access the blogs published by 3DSystems to gather up-to-date information about specific 3D printing technologies as well as know the new use cases being created in specific industries. The blogs posted on 3DSystems are written by seasoned professionals in various languages. Hence, the blogs help readers to know the latest 3D printing news and trends in their preferred languages.

Simplify 3D

Simplify3D has been simplifying the 3D printing process by providing sophisticated slicing software. Many professionals leverage the slicing software to provide 3D printers with the instructions required to produce solid three-dimensional objects from digital files. In addition to updating the slicing software regularly, Simiplify3D has been popularizing additive manufacturing technologies by publishing blogs regularly. Both professionals and learners can follow the Simplify3D Blog to access learning resources, general news, and customer success stories.

3D printing technologies have been evolving consistently. Likewise, 3D printing trends change at regular intervals. Beginners and enthusiasts can follow these top 3D printing blogs to learn new 3D printing technologies and track emerging 3D printing trends. However, they must find time to read the blogs regularly to leverage 3D printing technologies fully. It is also advisable for readers to keep their knowledge up to date by following multiple 3D printing blogs.

3D Printing Companies in India - Aurum3D

India is one of the countries where the 3D printing industry is in a nascent stage. But several market research studies suggest that the 3D printing industry in India has been growing steadily and consistently. The consistent growth of additive manufacturing industries allows for both individual and enterprise customers to choose from a large number of 3D printing companies in India.

3D printing companies in India differ from each other in many aspects. For instance, some of these companies manufacture industrial and desktop 3D printers, while others supply different types of 3D printing filaments. At the same time, many companies help customers to overcome constraints related to skills and budget by providing customized 3D designing, 3D scanning, and 3D printing services.

But several 3D printing companies in India stand out from competitors by fostering innovation and creativity. In addition to accelerating prototyping and customization, these companies help clients to design and create unique items by combining the right 3D printing technology and filaments. We are shortlisting some of the most innovative 3D printing companies by collecting information from diverse sources.

Identifying Some of the Most Innovative 3D Printing Companies in India

Imaginarium

Imaginarium has beaten competition by 3D-printing over 2500 parts every day using 20 industrial 3D printers. The 3D printing company has already delivered 3D-printed parts and models to clients from 40 industries. Recently, Imaginarium helped a leading jewelry company in creating a world record-breaking diamond ring using 3D printing technologies. Also, the company helps entrepreneurs to start their own jewelry brands by launching an online manufacturing platform. It allows customers to get customized 3D printing services by choosing from a slew of hardware, software, and filaments.

Think3D

Think3D is one of the 3D printing companies in India that deal in various types of 3D printers, 3D scanners, and 3D printing filaments. At the same time, the company has been providing 3D design, 3D scanning, and 3D printing services to companies from different sectors. Think3D has already 3D-printed over 2 million parts using 69 in-house machines. At the same time, the integrated 3D printing facility set up by the company helps facilitate rapid prototyping by combining a variety of services - 3D printing, 3D designing, 3D scanning, vacuum casting, injection molding, and scale modeling.

Aurum3D

Aurum3D is one of the 3D printing companies in Bangalore, India that have built a reputation in a short amount of time by providing 3D design, 3D printing, and 3D scanning services to companies from various sectors. The Bangalore-based company has already 3D-printed unique items for reputable companies from engineering, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, education, and medical industries. Recently, Aurum3D helped a leading aerospace company to arrange and organize key physical facilities by 3D-printing plant layout. Likewise, they helped future architects speed up natural disaster recovery by 3D-printing prefabricated homes as a student project.

Altem Technologies

Altem Technologies stands out from the crowd by providing cutting-edge 3D bioprinting services. The customized 3D bioprinting services help scientists and laboratories to carry out breakthrough research. The item creates organs, parts, and models using as the primary material. But the company helps scientists and researchers to cure or solidify the in a variety of ways using DLP and holographic light technologies. At the same time, it makes it easier for scientists to work and experiment with varying biomaterials using flexible extrusion-based bioprinting. However, Altem also offers 3D printing services that help customers create customized items using three popular 3D printing technologies – FDM, SLA, and Polyjet.

Novabeans

Novabeans is one of the 3D printing companies in India that has been providing a variety of additive manufacturing solutions to local and offshore companies. The 3D printers and scanners developed by Novabeans facilitate metal printing, ceramic printing, food printing, and bioprinting. At the same time, customers can 3D-print a variety of items by buying appropriate materials and filaments from the 3D printing company. Novabeans enhanced its professional reputation during the COVID-19 pandemic by 3D printing essential medial parts and facilitating 3D printing by providing technical support.

Divide By Zero

This company helps customers 3D print a variety of items by developing desktop, professional, and industrial 3D printers. At present, enterprises from various sectors – architecture, automobile, medical, education, and casting – use 3D printers developed by Divide By Zero. Divide By Zero beats the competition by leveraging a high-speed 3D printing technology – AFPM.

Unlike conventional additive manufacturing techniques, AFPM reduces 3D printing time drastically through automation. The new-age 3D printing technology uses proprietary software to identify potential pitfalls and take corrective measures automatically during the 3D printing process. The automation makes AFPM effective in improving output quality.

Engineering Technique

In addition to dealing in 3D printers and software, Engineering Technique offers a variety of 3D modeling and printing services. The 3D CAD and 3D printing services provided by the company help enterprises from various industries to experiment with ideas by producing a variety of items without investing additional resources. At the same time, Engineering Technique enhances its professional reputation consistently by offering advanced 3D printing solutions according to varying project needs. The combination of 3D design and printing services helps businesses to leverage additive manufacturing by overcoming constraints related to skills.

3DBazaar

This 3D printing company allows customers to buy 3D printers and 3D filaments along with availing of 3D printing services. 3D Bazaar deals in desktop and industrial 3D printers developed by different companies. Also, it helps customers to choose from a slew of filaments according to their 3D printers. At the same time, a customer can avail of 3D printing services to get desired items simply by uploading the digital file and selecting the appropriate 3D printing technology and filament. The abundance of choices and options make 3D Bazaar one of the top 3D printing companies in India.

Both individual and enterprise customers these days have the option to choose from many 3D printing companies in India. Most of these companies sell 3D printers, supply 3D printing filaments, and provide 3D printing services. But every customer must choose one of the most innovative 3D printing companies in India to create unique items based on ideas that nobody has tried before

Future of 3D Printing in India

As a disruptive technology, 3D printing or additive manufacturing facilitates the creation of a variety of solid items and objects from digital 3D models through a layering process. Both individuals and enterprises in India these days leverage various 3D printing technologies to convert their imaginations and ideas into physical objects by combining imagination and creativity. We can predict the future of 3D printing in India based on the exponential growth potential suggested by various market research studies.

According to Manufactur3D Magazine, “The Indian 3D printing industry is still at a nascent stage. However, it offers huge growth opportunities in the coming years. In numbers, Indian 3D Printing Industry is currently below $100 million, but holds the potential of becoming $1billion in coming few years.”

At present, customers in India have the option to choose from a wide range of 3D printers according to their precise needs and budget. Also, they can avail themselves of professional 3D printing services to convert digital files into physical objects without investing in 3D printers. But the future of 3D printing in India will be shaped by a slew of factors – policies, strategies, partnerships, collaborations, and investments.

Predicting the Future of 3D Printing in India

Growth and Business Opportunities

The steady growth of the 3D printing market in India will create many new business opportunities. Both businesses and startups can leverage these opportunities in a variety of ways – producing 3D printers, selling 3D printers, supplying 3D filaments, providing 3D printing services, and selling 3D-printed products. Every entrepreneur will have the option to deal in a variety of 3D printers and filaments.

Likewise, a startup can generate recurring revenue by offering 3D designing, 3D scanning, and 3D printing services. Hence, enterprises will shape the future of 3D printing in India by capitalizing on many new opportunities. However, most entrepreneurs will target enterprise clients and deal in industrial 3D printing to generate more revenue.

Local 3D Printing Facilities

Many large companies have already announced their plans to set up 3D printing facilities in various tier-1 cities in India. For instance, Kerala-based Peekay Group is all set to open a 3D printing technology facility at the Airport City by signing an agreement with Bengaluru Airport City Ltd (BACL). Likewise, the Government of Telangana has announced its decision to set up the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) in Hyderabad. The local 3D printing facilities will drive the growth of the 3D printing market across Indian states.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Many private sector players form partnerships to leverage the growth opportunities created by 3D printing technologies. Some of these partnerships and collaborations aim to achieve high-quality 3D printing services customized according to precise project needs. At the same time, many collaborations aim to make 3D printing technologies accessible to Indian customers. For instance, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) collaborated with Wipro3D to facilitate the designing, development, production, and repairing of aerospace components using metal 3D printing technologies.

Key Challenges and Barriers

The adoption and growth of 3D printing in India are directly impacted by a slew of factors. The companies dealing in 3D printing machines, software, and filaments must address these key challenges proactively to leverage the growth opportunities created by additive manufacturing.

• High cost of advanced 3D printers
• Low-performance of inexpensive 3D printers
• Limited access to 3D printing filaments
• Constraints related to technical knowledge, skills, and expertise
• Absence of local 3D printing facilities

National 3D Printing Policy

In 2020, the Central Government announced a 3D printing policy intending to help domestic companies leverage commercial opportunities by overcoming both technical and economical barriers. The policy will help domestic companies and startups to set up global bases for 3D manufacturing in India. The policy formulated by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) will shape the future of 3D printing in India by eliminating many technical and economical barriers.

Transition to Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 or the fourth industrial revolution has already started transforming many industries through automation and digital transformation. 3D printing is one of the disruptive technologies driving Industry 4.0. But many industries in India are yet to adopt and leverage additive manufacturing.

But several studies suggest that 3D printing has the potential to transform most industries in India including manufacturing, engineering, automotive, aerospace, housing, and defense. Many experts cite the lack of awareness and understanding as the key reason slowing 3D printing adoption in India.

According to Business Today, “The technology, which took its first steps over three decades ago, is now catching on in India, where companies ranging from Tata Motors and JSW Steel to GE Transportation and tens of start-ups, apart from organizations such as ISRO, are reaping its benefits in the form of higher precision and lower costs.”

The 3D printing training programs and 3D printing services will make it easier for enterprises from various industries to leverage additive manufacturing. That is why; transition to Industry 4.0 will remain one of the most significant indicators of the future of 3D printing in India in the near future.

3D Printing Training and Awareness

Many startups aim to make 3D printing accessible to the masses. But no business can enhance the popularity and accessibility of additive manufacturing without promoting training and awareness aggressively. Many 3D companies in India already create awareness and train enthusiasts through training programs and workshops.

The consistent growth of 3D printing will boost the popularity of relevant courses and training programs. Many students and professionals will join such courses to create solid objects by combining the right 3D printer and filaments. Many students will join 3D printing courses to enhance their career prospects.

As highlighted by several market researchers and analysts, the 3D printing industry in India will grow consistently and steadily in the future. But the future of 3D printing in India will be driven by the way businesses and startups address the existing and emerging channels. Both private and public sectors have to take several initiatives to make advanced 3D printing technologies popular and affordable in various parts of the country in the short and long runs.

References:

https://manufactur3dmag.com/indian-3d-printing-industry-highlights-of-the-year-2020/

https://3dprintingindustry.com/news/100-3d-printing-experts-predict-the-future-of-3d-printing-in-2030-167623/

https://www.think3d.in/3d-printing-business-in-india/

https://www.electronicsb2b.com/eb-specials/industry-report/3d-printing-business-opportunity/

https://3dprint.com/271107/3d-printing-in-india-slow-adoption-what-the-future-holds/

What is SLS 3D Printing?

You have the option to choose from a wide range of consumer and industrial 3D printers. Every 3D printer produces three-dimensional objects by depositing filament layer by layer based on computer-aided design (CAD). But every 3D printer is driven by a different and specific additive manufacturing technology. 3D printers driven by selective laser sintering (SLS) technology produce various items using a high-power laser as the primary power source. They use laser light to sinter finely-powdered filament like nylon and polyamide.

According to Wikipedia, “Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that uses a laser as the power source to sinter powdered material (typically nylon or polyamide), aiming the laser automatically at points in space defined by a 3D model, binding the material together to create a solid structure.”

SLS 3D printing is often described as a modern additive manufacturing technology. But the 3D printing technology is currently used widely by manufacturers and 3D printing service providers for the purpose of low-volume production of components and rapid prototyping. That is why; you need to differential SLS 3D printing from other widely used 3D printing technology while comparing the 3D printers. It is also important to understand the important aspect of this additive manufacturing technology.

Understanding Important Aspects of SLS 3D Printing Technology

3D Printing Process

This 3D printing technology produces solid items based on the powder sintering principle. An SLS 3D printer consolidates small particles of the powdered filament using a high-powerful laser. The laser produces a mass by sintering the powdered material based on the CAD. The 3D printer preheats the filament to a temperature that is below the melting point.

The preheating makes it easier for the laser to form solid parts by increasing the temperature level. The item to the 3D-printed is supported by the unfused powder filament. Hence, SLS 3D printing eliminates the need for a support structure. After forming the solid structure, the build chamber is cooled down for several minutes.

The cooling process ensures that the item retains the desired mechanical properties along with eliminating the chances of warping. Finally, the item is removed from the build chamber for post-processing. The 3D engineers clean the excess powder before getting the item delivered. Also, they can recycle and use the unfused filament in the future without escalating the overall 3D printing cost.

Materials/Filaments

While using an SLS 3D printer, you have the option to choose from a wide range of powdered filaments – plastic, ceramic, glass, and metal. Hence, you need to choose the SLS 3D printing filament according to the nature and needs of the item to be 3D-printed. However, you must remember that the quality of the 3D-printed object will vary according to the key attributes of the particles – shape, size, density, porosity, and roughness.

Many engineers opt for various types of polymer while using this type of 3D printer to leverage their sintering properties or behavior. They can easily customize the 3D-printed item’s mechanical properties by choosing the appropriate form of polymer. Most engineers these days avoid metals while working with SLS 3D printing technology. Instead, they use selective laser melting (SLM) technology to 3D-printed objects using metal filaments.

Advantages

At present, SLS is one of the widely used industrial 3D printing technologies. As mentioned earlier, this 3D printing technology produces solid objects without requiring support structures. The engineers and manufacturers can choose appropriate filament to produce parts that resist chemicals. Also, they can customize the 3D-printed part’s strength, stiffness, and finishing by choosing from a slew of options.

SLS produces prototypes and functional parts much faster than other 3D printers. An engineer can use a single SLS 3D printer to produce parts with complex geometries and reliable mechanical properties. Also, he can use this 3D printing technology to deliver ready-to-use parts and components with varying functionality, durability, and strength.

Disadvantages

Like other 3D printing technologies, SLS also has several shortcomings or disadvantages. Often porous surfaces are cited as one of the major shortcomings of items produced using SLS 3D printers. The engineers have to perform elaborate post-processing to deliver a fully functional part that can be used for various purposes. However, the latest SLS 3D printers reduce both time and cost by overcoming some of these shortcomings. Also, engineers can easily leverage SLS 3D printing technology using the right type of SLS 3D printer.

Evolution

SLS is one of the 3D printing technologies that have been evolving consistently. The new-age SLS 3D printers feature advanced sintering machines like FORMIGA P 110. They decrease the low-volume 3D printing cost significantly by supporting larger build sizes. Also, they distribute temperature across the build area more efficiently. You must invest in a new-age SLS 3D printer to produce medium-sized prototypes and functional parts with complex geometries using various powdered filaments.

Applications/Use Cases

At present, SLS 3D printing is used widely by manufacturers to produce prototypes and functional parts with complex geometries and reliable mechanical properties. It enables engineers to produce and evaluate prototypes by reducing 3D printing time and cost. Also, the engineers can use SLS 3D printers to facilitate low-volume production of components and parts for clients from various industries – automotive, aerospace, medical, and military.

SLS is one of the advanced 3D printing technologies that leverage high-power lasers as the primary energy source. That is why; this category of 3D printers is used only in industrial and commercial setups. Individual users find it challenging to install and use SLS 3D printers for home use. But the popularity of SLS 3D printing technology has been increasing consistently across industries. However, the engineers have the option to choose from several types of SLS 3D printers according to the nature and requirements of the items to be 3D-printed.

SLS 3D printing is one of the modern additive manufacturing technologies. SLS 3D printers are used widely by manufacturers to create custom parts and perform rapid prototyping without increasing cost. But you must remember that SLS 3D printing technology, like other additive manufacturing technologies, has its own advantages and disadvantages.

References

https://formlabs.com/asia/blog/what-is-selective-laser-sintering/

https://www.materialise.com/en/manufacturing/3d-printing-technology/laser-sintering

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_laser_sintering

https://www.3dsystems.com/resources/information-guides/selective-laser-sintering/sls

https://www.sinterit.com/what-is-sls-3d-printing/

https://www.axisproto.com/materials/sls/

https://www.sculpteo.com/en/materials/sls-material/

https://amfg.ai/2020/01/21/the-evolution-of-sls-new-technologies-materials-and-applications/