PRINTOLOGY
Foreword
Choosing the right 3D printing technology and understanding its applications are pivotal for maximising the impact of your projects. Whether you're a beginner or looking to expand, this resource aims to equip you with insights to make informed decisions. By exploring different technologies, you'll find the right entry point into AM, with options that suit various interests, levels of expertise and importantly budgets.
3D printing is often perceived as expensive and out of reach, this is a common misconception. You can find brand-new printers for under $250 AUD, and the second-hand market is full of affordable deals from hobbyists who didn't master their machines. While the ultra-budget route can be challenging and isn’t for everyone, there are plenty of user-friendly printers that require minimal calibration, making 3D printing accessible to all.
As adoption of this technology continues to grow, its impact is being felt across various sectors, from aerospace to healthcare and increasingly within automotive, as reported by Markforged Industry Report 2020, 22.1% of global AM adoption is within automotive applications.
This widespread adoption is driven by AM’s ability to produce complex geometries, reduce material waste, enables rapid prototyping and on-demand, in-house production. As the industry continues to evolve, AM is expected to play a crucial role in the production of end-use parts. According to a 2019 report by EY, 46% of companies anticipated using AM for end-use parts by 2022, signaling a significant shift towards fully leveraging this technology in mass production.