For some manufacturers, additive seems like a solution without a problem: sure, it can print one part in brittle PLA, with a poor surface finish—if you give it a few hours. From materials, to cost, to scalability, additive manufacturing may seem like it just can’t compete with conventional techniques like injection molding.

On the other hand, it’s undeniable that additive has certain strengths that no other process can match. The time from CAD drawing to finished part is unbeatable, which facilitates iterative design with speed and low cost. Then there’s the complex internal geometries that would otherwise be impossible. It’s clear that the technology has great potential, but how to harness it?

According to Kirk Rogers, technology lead at the GE Center for Additive Technology in Pittsburgh, to begin to understand how additive manufacturing could benefit their operations, manufacturers need to get into the “additive manufacturing mindset.” Jigs and fixtures are a great place to start.

In this video, Kirk Matsuo of Ultimaker discusses some of the latest features in 3D printing that will surely get you thinking about how your operation could take advantage of additive manufacturing.

For more information about integrating additive manufacturing, click here.