3D printing has become a common service that caters to many industries, and the rising demand has allowed providers to price their services more competitively. Despite this, 3D printing services still pose some challenges that those interested in entering the market need to face.
Challenge 1: Huge Investment
Just because there are more affordable 3D printer options now does not mean that it is a good choice for everyone. However, it does not mean that you need to give up on your desire to turn it into a business opportunity. There are many ways you can invest in a 3D printer. If you cannot get an industrial machine now, you can start with a desktop 3D printer first.
The two differ in some crucial ways, so make sure that you study them well. Here are some important facts that you should take note of:
- Both are based on material extrusion.
- Both are also based on layer-by-layer ousting of molten thermoplastic through a spout.
- Industrial 3D printers produce more design-accurate parts. They also allow printing of complex parts with much smoother surfaces.
- Desktop 3D printers have more features nowadays. By using a well-calibrated FDM machine, you can also produce parts with relatively high dimensional accuracy.
- If you need hardwearing and thermal- or chemical-resistant 3D printed products, industrial 3D printers are better because they use materials loaded with additives to improve these properties.
See which one will work best for your business based on these advantages.
Challenge 2: Ease of Use
Another reason people get discouraged from investing in 3D printers is the ease of use. Aside from purchasing an expensive machine, you need to find and train people who will manage it for you. This technology will require you to also invest in learning the ins and outs of the machine. You need people who will train to understand how it works and do the job correctly. It will take time and money, and the process may be difficult for people who do not have any background or experience with the machine.
However, like any other businesses, there is a way to make it work. In a status report by Sculpteo, more than half of respondents said that they did not learn about 3D technology through formal education. That means more people can learn how to use it with the help of proper training and guidance.
Benefits of Using a 3D Printer
Another way to gauge your need to invest in a 3D printer is by comparing the improvements you will experience by using it. 3D printers can upgrade the manufacturing process in different industries. It also speeds up the prototyping process in various production companies. Investing in one will give your business more opportunities, especially if your business belongs to an industry that demands more of this service.
Conclusion
If you think you need more help than what this article can provide, know that you always have a third option. That is to outsource 3D service from businesses that have already invested in the technology. It is a more cost-effective way to speed up your manufacturing processes without the need to invest in an expensive machine or to train manpower that will cost you time and money.
3D Quick Printing offers professional 3D printing service in Cambridge for all consumers. Whether you are a hobbyist or an architect, we can do the job for you with cost-effective pricing. Contact us today for a free quotation.
