3D Printing Market Leaders 2020: The Ultimate Guide [2024] 🚀

Video: The 3D printing revolution | DW Documentary.

Did you know that the global 3D printing market is projected to reach a staggering USD 68.16 billion by 2029? That’s a CAGR of 21.0% from 2024 to 2029! The world of 3D printing is evolving rapidly, and it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the market leaders and key players in this exciting industry. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the 3D printing market leaders of 2020, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between. So, buckle up and let’s explore the fascinating world of 3D printing together!

Quick Answer

Quick Tips and Facts
Background: The Evolution of 3D Printing
Market Dynamics: What Drives the 3D Printing Market?

The 3D Printing Ecosystem: Exploring the Key Players
The Future of 3D Printing: Trends and Innovations
FAQ

Conclusion
Recommended Links
Reference Links

Quick Answer

In a nutshell, the 3D printing market leaders of 2020 are Stratasys, EOS GmbH, HP Development Company, L.P., 3D Systems, Inc., General Electric, and Materialise NV. These companies have established themselves as pioneers in the industry, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with 3D printing technology. Each of these market leaders brings unique strengths and innovations to the table, catering to various industries and applications.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the details, here are some quick tips and facts about the 3D printing market leaders:

Stratasys: Known for its industrial-grade 3D printers, Stratasys offers a wide range of solutions for various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
EOS GmbH: Specializing in metal 3D printing, EOS GmbH has revolutionized industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical with its high-quality and precise printing capabilities.
HP Development Company, L.P.: Leveraging its expertise in printing technology, HP has made significant strides in the 3D printing market, focusing on speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

3D Systems, Inc.: With a comprehensive portfolio of 3D printers, materials, and software, 3D Systems caters to industries such as healthcare, aerospace, and automotive, enabling complex and innovative designs.
General Electric: GE has embraced 3D printing for various applications, including aviation, healthcare, and energy. The company’s investment in additive manufacturing has led to groundbreaking advancements in the industry.
Materialise NV: As a pioneer in the 3D printing software industry, Materialise NV offers innovative solutions for industries such as healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods.

Now that we have a quick overview, let’s delve deeper into the background and explore the fascinating history of 3D printing.

Background: The Evolution of 3D Printing

old photos in brown wooden chest

The concept of 3D printing dates back to the 1980s when Chuck Hull invented stereolithography, a technique that used photopolymerization to create 3D objects layer by layer. Since then, 3D printing has come a long way, evolving into a disruptive technology with a wide range of applications.

Over the years, advancements in materials, hardware, and software have propelled the growth of the 3D printing market. From prototyping to production, 3D printing has revolutionized industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. The ability to create complex geometries, reduce lead times, and customize products has made 3D printing a game-changer in the manufacturing world.

Market Dynamics: What Drives the 3D Printing Market?

Video: Why 3D printing is vital to success of US manufacturing | FT Film.

The 3D printing market is driven by several key factors that have contributed to its rapid growth. Let’s explore the main drivers behind the expansion of this exciting industry:

Ease in Manufacturing Customized Products: 3D printing allows for the production of highly customized products, catering to individual needs and preferences. This level of personalization has opened up new possibilities in industries such as healthcare, where patient-specific medical devices and implants can be created.
Reduction in Manufacturing Costs and Process Downtime: Traditional manufacturing methods often involve complex tooling and lengthy production processes. 3D printing eliminates the need for expensive tooling and reduces process downtime, resulting in cost savings and increased efficiency.

Government-led Investments in 3D Printing Projects: Governments around the world have recognized the potential of 3D printing and have invested heavily in research and development initiatives. These investments have fueled innovation and accelerated the adoption of 3D printing in various industries.
Availability of Various Industrial-Grade 3D Printing Materials: The availability of a wide range of industrial-grade materials has expanded the applications of 3D printing. From metals to polymers, these materials offer different properties and characteristics, making them suitable for diverse industries and applications.

Despite the rapid growth, the 3D printing market still faces some challenges. Let’s explore the key factors that restrict its growth:

Lack of Standardized Testing Methods: One of the challenges in the 3D printing industry is the lack of standardized testing methods to verify the mechanical properties of 3D printed materials. This hinders the widespread adoption of 3D printing in critical applications where material performance is crucial.
High Raw Material Costs: While the cost of 3D printers has decreased over the years, the cost of raw materials remains relatively high. This can be a barrier to entry for some industries, especially those with high-volume production requirements.

Inadequate Design and Process Control Data: The lack of printing material specifications and design guidelines can pose challenges in achieving consistent and reliable results. Without proper data and control, it can be difficult to optimize the printing process and ensure quality.

Now that we understand the market dynamics, let’s explore the key players in the 3D printing industry and their contributions.

The 3D Printing Ecosystem: Exploring the Key Players

Video: Is 3D printing the key to true sustainability? HP is betting on it | Fast Company.

The 3D printing market is a vibrant ecosystem with several key players driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Let’s take a closer look at the market leaders and their unique offerings:

1. Stratasys

Stratasys is a leading provider of industrial-grade 3D printers, materials, and software. With a focus on innovation and reliability, Stratasys caters to various industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. Their printers offer high precision and durability, enabling the production of complex and functional parts.

Rating: 9.5/10

Aspect	Rating
Design	9
Functionality	10
Performance	9
Cost-effectiveness	9
Overall	9.5

Stratasys’ printers are known for their robustness and versatility, allowing users to create intricate designs with ease. The company also offers a wide range of materials, including thermoplastics and photopolymers, to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

2. EOS GmbH

EOS GmbH is a pioneer in metal 3D printing, offering a comprehensive range of solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical. Their printers utilize laser sintering technology to produce high-quality metal parts with excellent mechanical properties. EOS GmbH’s commitment to innovation and precision has made them a trusted partner for companies seeking to leverage the benefits of metal 3D printing.

Rating: 9/10

Aspect	Rating
Design	9
Functionality	9
Performance	9
Cost-effectiveness	8
Overall	9

EOS GmbH’s printers are known for their reliability and accuracy, enabling the production of complex geometries and intricate designs. The company also offers a range of metal powders, including titanium, aluminum, and stainless steel, to meet the specific requirements of different applications.

3. HP Development Company, L.P.

HP Development Company, L.P. has leveraged its expertise in printing technology to make significant strides in the 3D printing market. Their printers focus on speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology enables the production of functional parts with high precision and detail.

Rating: 8.5/10

Aspect	Rating
Design	8
Functionality	9
Performance	8
Cost-effectiveness	9
Overall	8.5

HP’s printers are known for their speed and efficiency, allowing users to produce parts at a fraction of the time compared to traditional manufacturing methods. The company also offers a range of materials, including nylon and elastomers, to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

4. 3D Systems, Inc.

3D Systems, Inc. is a leading provider of 3D printers, materials, and software. With a comprehensive portfolio of solutions, the company caters to industries such as healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods. Their printers offer high precision and reliability, enabling the production of complex and functional parts.

Rating: 9/10

Aspect	Rating
Design	9
Functionality	9
Performance	9
Cost-effectiveness	8
Overall	9

3D Systems’ printers are known for their versatility and ease of use, making them suitable for both prototyping and production applications. The company also offers a wide range of materials, including plastics and metals, to meet the specific requirements of different industries.

5. General Electric

General Electric (GE) has embraced 3D printing for various applications, including aviation, healthcare, and energy. The company’s investment in additive manufacturing has led to groundbreaking advancements in the industry. GE’s printers offer high precision and reliability, enabling the production of complex and critical parts.

Rating: 9/10

Aspect	Rating
Design	9
Functionality	9
Performance	9
Cost-effectiveness	8
Overall	9

GE’s printers are known for their robustness and ability to produce parts with excellent mechanical properties. The company’s expertise in various industries allows them to develop tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of their customers.

6. Materialise NV

Materialise NV is a pioneer in the 3D printing software industry, offering innovative solutions for industries such as healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods. Their software enables users to optimize designs, simulate printing processes, and ensure quality control. Materialise NV’s commitment to innovation and collaboration has made them a trusted partner for companies seeking to leverage the benefits of 3D printing.

Rating: 8.5/10

Aspect	Rating
Design	8
Functionality	9
Performance	8
Cost-effectiveness	9
Overall	8.5

Materialise NV’s software solutions are known for their user-friendly interface and advanced features, allowing users to streamline their 3D printing workflows. The company also offers a range of services, including design optimization and 3D printing on-demand, to meet the specific needs of its customers.

Now that we’ve explored the key players in the 3D printing market, let’s take a glimpse into the future and discover the trends and innovations that will shape the industry.

The Future of 3D Printing: Trends and Innovations

Video: 3D Printing Trends for 2020.

The 3D printing industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging regularly. Here are some key developments to watch out for in the future:

Continuous Printing: Researchers are exploring the concept of continuous 3D printing, where printers can produce objects without the need for layer-by-layer construction. This technology has the potential to significantly increase printing speed and efficiency.
Multi-Material Printing: The ability to print with multiple materials simultaneously opens up new possibilities for creating complex and functional objects. This technology allows for the integration of different materials with varying properties, enabling the production of customized and optimized designs.
Bioprinting: The field of bioprinting aims to create living tissues and organs using 3D printing technology. This has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by enabling the production of patient-specific implants and organs, reducing the need for traditional transplantation.

Sustainable Materials: As sustainability becomes a key focus in manufacturing, researchers are developing new materials for 3D printing that are eco-friendly and biodegradable. These materials offer an alternative to traditional plastics and reduce the environmental impact of 3D printing.
Automation and Robotics: The integration of automation and robotics in 3D printing workflows can significantly increase productivity and efficiency. Robots can handle tasks such as part removal, post-processing, and quality control, freeing up human operators for more complex tasks.

The future of 3D printing is filled with exciting possibilities, and these trends and innovations are just the tip of the iceberg. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more groundbreaking developments in the years to come.

FAQ

maps lying on the floor

Q: Who is the market leader in 3D printing?

A: The market leader in 3D printing is Stratasys. With its wide range of industrial-grade 3D printers and materials, Stratasys has established itself as a pioneer in the industry, catering to various industries and applications.

Q: Who is the largest 3D printing company?

A: The largest 3D printing company is Stratasys. With its extensive portfolio of 3D printers, materials, and software, Stratasys has a strong presence in the market and serves a wide range of industries.

Q: What are the drivers of the 3D printing market?

A: The drivers of the 3D printing market include ease in manufacturing customized products, reduction in manufacturing costs and process downtime, increasing government-led investments in 3D printing projects, and the availability of various industrial-grade 3D printing materials.

Q: How many 3D printers were sold in 2020?

A: According to industry reports, approximately 495,000 3D printers were sold worldwide in 2020. This number is expected to grow significantly in the coming years as the technology becomes more accessible and affordable.

Conclusion

a close up of a machine that is making something

In conclusion, the 3D printing market leaders of 2020, including Stratasys, EOS GmbH, HP Development Company, L.P., 3D Systems, Inc., General Electric, and Materialise NV, have revolutionized the industry with their innovative solutions and contributions. Each market leader brings unique strengths and capabilities to the table, catering to various industries and applications. As the 3D printing market continues to grow and evolve, we can expect even more exciting developments and advancements in the years to come.

So, whether you’re a professional in the aerospace industry, a healthcare provider, or a hobbyist looking to explore the world of 3D printing, these market leaders have got you covered. Embrace the possibilities of 3D printing and unlock a world of creativity and innovation!

Reference Links

3D Printing Market Size, Share, Industry Report, Revenue …

3D Printing Market Leaders 2020: The Ultimate Guide [2024] 🚀

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

Quick Tips and Facts

Background: The Evolution of 3D Printing

Market Dynamics: What Drives the 3D Printing Market?