Global 3D Printing Market – Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031

Global 3D Printing Market, By Component (Hardware, Software, and Services), Type (Desktop 3D Printer, and Industrial 3D Printer), Technology (Stereolithography, Fuse Deposition Modeling, Selective Laser Sintering, Direct Metal Laser Sintering, Polyjet Printing, Inkjet printing, Electron Beam Melting, Laser Metal Deposition, Digital Light Processing, Laminated Object Manufacturing, and Others), Software (Design Software, Inspection Software, Printer Software, and Scanning Software), Application (Prototyping, Tooling, and Functional Parts), Vertical (Industrial 3D Printing, and Desktop 3D Printing), Material (Polymer, Metal, and Ceramic) – Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031.

3D Printing Market Analysis and Size

In healthcare, 3D printing has transformed patient care by enabling the production of custom medical devices, implants, and anatomical models tailored to individual patients. Surgeons use 3D-printed models for pre-surgical planning, allowing for more precise and effective procedures with reduced risks. Bioprinting techniques hold promise for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with researchers exploring the possibility of printing organs and tissues for transplantation. Overall, 3D printing in healthcare offers innovative solutions for personalized treatment, medical training, and advancing biomedical research.

Global 3D printing market size was valued at USD 7.39 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 23.41 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 15.50% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2031. In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include in-depth expert analysis, geographically represented company-wise production and capacity, network layouts of distributors and partners, detailed and updated price trend analysis and deficit analysis of supply chain and demand.

Report Scope and Market Segmentation       

Market Definition

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on a digital model. It enables the production of complex shapes and prototypes with precision, offering flexibility and customization in various industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to healthcare and consumer goods.

3D Printing Market Dynamics

Drivers

• Growing Technological Advancements Enhances 3D Printing Manufacturing Processes

Improved materials, including advanced polymers, metals, and composites, expand the range of applications across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. Innovations in printing technologies, such as faster printing speeds, higher resolutions, and multi-material printing capabilities, enable the production of more intricate and functional parts with greater precision. Furthermore, developments in software and automation streamline the design and printing process, reducing time and labor costs. Technological advancements drive the 3D printing industry by offering solutions that are more versatile, cost-effective, and capable of meeting the evolving needs of various sectors.

• Increased Demand of 3D Printing Technologies due to Growing Regulatory Support

Government agencies and regulatory bodies worldwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of regulating 3D printing technologies to address concerns regarding product reliability, intellectual property rights, and consumer safety. Establishing clear regulatory frameworks and certification processes, regulators foster confidence among manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and consumers, facilitating the adoption and growth of 3D printing technologies. Moreover, regulatory support encourages innovation by providing a predictable environment for companies to invest in research and development, driving advancements in additive manufacturing and expanding its applications in diverse sectors.

Opportunities

• Rise in Digital Literacy Among Consumers Increases Adoption of 3D Printing Technology

As more people become proficient in digital design software and 3D modeling tools, they can harness the capabilities of 3D printers to bring their ideas to life. This trend has led to a proliferation of DIY projects, personalized gifts, and home décor items, driving demand for consumer-grade 3D printers and filament materials. Online platforms and communities dedicated to sharing 3D printable designs further fuel the accessibility and appeal of 3D printing among everyday users, fostering creativity and innovation in the consumer market.

• Growing Customization Increases the Demand for 3D Printing Across Industries

With 3D printing on demand, products can be tailored to meet specific individual needs, preferences, and requirements, leading to enhanced customer satisfaction and product performance. In the automotive sector, 3D printing enables the production of customized car parts and accessories, catering to unique design preferences and performance specifications. This level of customization and personalization, facilitated by 3D printing on demand, fosters innovation, differentiation, and competitive advantage for businesses while empowering consumers with bespoke solutions tailored to their preferences and needs.

Restraints/Challenges

• Material Limitations leads to the High Manufacturing Complexity

While there has been progress in developing a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites, the range still falls short of meeting the diverse needs of industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. Challenges include limited material properties, such as strength, durability, and heat resistance, which may not match those of traditional manufacturing materials. Additionally, the development of new materials involves extensive research and testing, leading to longer lead times and higher costs, thereby inhibiting the widespread adoption of 3D printing across various sectors.

• High Initial Investment limits the Adoption of 3D Printing Technologies

High financial barrier poses challenges, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups looking to adopt 3D printing technology. Additionally, the need for ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and skilled personnel further adds to the initial investment burden. Consequently, many businesses may hesitate to invest in 3D printing, limiting its widespread adoption and hindering the realization of its full potential across industries.

This market,  report provides details of new recent developments, trade regulations, import-export analysis, production analysis, value chain optimization, market share, impact of domestic and localized market players, analyses opportunities in terms of emerging revenue pockets, changes in market regulations, strategic market growth analysis, market size, category market growths, application niches and dominance, product approvals, product launches, geographic expansions, technological innovations in the market. To gain more info on the market, contact data bridge market research for an analyst brief, our team will help you take an informed market decision to achieve market growth.

Impact and Current Market Scenario of Raw Material Shortage and Shipping Delays

Data Bridge Market Research offers a high-level analysis of the market and delivers information by keeping in account the impact and current market environment of raw material shortage and shipping delays. This translates into assessing strategic possibilities, creating effective action plans, and assisting businesses in making important decisions.

Apart from the standard report, we also offer in-depth analysis of the procurement level from forecasted shipping delays, distributor mapping by region, commodity analysis, production analysis, price mapping trends, sourcing, category performance analysis, supply chain risk management solutions, advanced benchmarking, and other services for procurement and strategic support.

Expected Impact of Economic Slowdown on the Pricing and Availability of Products

When economic activity slows, industries begin to suffer. The forecasted effects of the economic downturn on the pricing and accessibility of the products are taken into account in the market insight reports and intelligence services provided by DBMR. With this, our clients can typically keep one step ahead of their competitors, project their sales and revenue, and estimate their profit and loss expenditures.

Recent Developments

• In February 2022, Dassault Systèmes and Cadence Design Systems collaborates to offer integrated solutions for electronic systems development in diverse sectors such as high tech and healthcare
• In March 2023, Optomec launched KEWB, a production control software streamlining the manufacturing of printed electronics. With features such as operator guidance and industry 4.0 connectivity, KEWB caters to applications such as 5G antennas and chip integration
• In April 2023, China announced plans to employ 3D printing for constructing lunar habitats during Chang'e missions. This initiative marks a significant step toward establishing sustainable human presence on the moon by utilizing reusable resources
• In November 2023, Autodesk Inc. launched Autodesk AI, integrating generative capabilities and intelligent assistance into their products. This technology aims to enhance user efficiency by automating repetitive tasks and reducing errors, thereby meeting customer needs effectively
• In March 2023, 3D Systems, Inc. launched NextDent Cast and NextDent Base, innovative printing materials, alongside NextDent LCD1, a user-friendly small-format printer. These additions aim to enhance material properties and accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies

3D Printing Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of component, type, technology, software, application, vertical, and material. The growth amongst these segments will help you analyse meagre growth segments in the industries and provide the users with a valuable market overview and market insights to help them make strategic decisions for identifying core market applications.

Component

• Hardware
• Software
• Services

Type

• Desktop 3D Printer
• Industrial 3D Printer

Technology

• Stereolithography
• Fuse Deposition Modeling
• Selective Laser Sintering
• Direct Metal Laser Sintering
• Polyjet Printing
• Inkjet printing
• Electron Beam Melting
• Laser Metal Deposition
• Digital Light Processing
• Laminated Object Manufacturing
• Others

Software

• Design Software
• Inspection Software
• Printer Software
• Scanning Software

Application

• Prototyping
• Tooling
• Functional Parts

Vertical

• Industrial 3D Printing
  • Automotive
  • Aerospace and Defence
  • Healthcare
  • Consumer Electronics
  • Industrial
  • Power and Energy
  • Others
• Desktop 3D Printing
  • Educational Purpose
  • Fashion and Jewellery
  • Objects
  • Dental
  • Food
  • Others

Material

• Polymer
• Metal
• Ceramic

3D Printing Market Analysis/Insights

The market is analysed and market size insights and trends are provided by component, type, technology, software, application, vertical, and material as referenced above.

The countries covered in the market report are U.S., Canada and Mexico in North America, Germany, France, U.K., Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Russia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Rest of Europe in Europe, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia-Pacific (APAC) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC), Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA) as a part of Middle East and Africa (MEA), Brazil, Argentina and Rest of South America as part of South America.

North America is expected to dominate the market, buoyed by its advanced technological infrastructure and enthusiastic embrace of smart city initiatives. The region's prominence is bolstered by a thriving ecosystem of major industry players, fostering innovation and propelling market expansion. Moreover, a surge in research endeavors solidifies North America's position as a frontrunner in driving the evolution and practical applications of 3D printing technologies, promising continued growth and leadership in the global arena.

Asia-Pacific is expected for significant growth in the 3D printing market due to factors such as rapid urbanization, robust infrastructure development, and widespread adoption of advanced technologies, notably in China, Japan, and India. Increasing demand from the automotive and consumer electronics sectors further drives the adoption of 3D printing solutions in the region. Moreover, supportive government initiatives and investments in smart city projects play a vital role in fueling the expansion of the 3D printing market across the Asia-Pacific region.

The country section of the report also provides individual market impacting factors and changes in regulation in the market domestically that impacts the current and future trends of the market. Data points such as down-stream and upstream value chain analysis, technical trends and porter's five forces analysis, case studies are some of the pointers used to forecast the market scenario for individual countries. Also, the presence and availability of global brands and their challenges faced due to large or scarce competition from local and domestic brands, impact of domestic tariffs and trade routes are considered while providing forecast analysis of the country data.

Competitive Landscape and 3D Printing Market Share Analysis

The market competitive landscape provides details by competitor. Details included are company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, global presence, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, application dominance. The above data points provided are only related to the companies' focus related to the market.

Some of the major players operating in the market are:

• ExOne Company (U.S.)
• Organovo Holdings, Inc.(U.S.)
• Autodesk, Inc. (U.S.)
• Arcam AB (Sweden)
• Optomec, Inc (U.S.)
• Protolabs (U.S.)
• Voxelijet AG (Germany)
• Stratasys Ltd. (Isarael)
• Hoganas AB (Sweden)
• 3D Systems Corp. (U.S.)
• Canon Inc. (Japan)
• ENVISIONTEC US LLC (U.S.)
• Shapeways, Inc. (U.S.)