Global 3D printing materials market to reach $868
million over next four years. By Howard Riell
T
he latest in 3D printing: As technology
continues to advance and, in some cases,
become more affordable, the number of
potential users is growing. Printers are
fnding it an area with abundant poten-
tial, if they are willing
to embrace a very different busi-
ness model.
"There is always something new happen-
ing in 3D printing," said Kristen Turner,
U.S. marketing director for Sculpteo in San
Francisco, "from industry-specific appli-
cations to developments in IP issues to
consumer marketplaces expanding to offer
3D printing."
"2D Printers certainly have a keen inter-
The Print
Business Model
14 Q U I C K P R I N T I N G / M a y 2 0 1 4
w w w. M y P R I N T R e s o u r c e . c o m
est in 3D printing," reported Melissa Ragsdale, president of
3D Printer Solutions, NovaCopy. "I have spoken at a number
of conferences in the last 18 months where 2D Printers want
to learn about the technology, the opportunities available to
them and how to get started."
"In the past four months we've announced almost 20 new
products," added Buddy Byrum, VP of product and channel
management in the Personal and Professional 3D Printers
division of 3D Systems. "All in all, it's a very exciting time."
3D printing, of course, is an umbrella term that includes
several different technologies. Nearly every material avail-
able for 3D printing requires a differ-
ent printer which runs on a differ-
ent technology. The types of products
being printed range from architectural
models and hardware components to
prototypes, custom smartphone cases,
figurines and more.
Both digital and offset printing ser-
vices are investigating 3D printing,
but shipping companies have entered
the space first. UPS offers 3D printing
services at a few of its franchises; in
France, Sculpteo provides 3D printing
Full-color sugar printing by 3D Systems.
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