Does 3D Printing Belong in the In-plant?

Here are some points to consider.

1. 3D printing is a relatively easy service to add. You already have skilled people, a network, servers, an FTP site and are comfortable receiving files. A 3D printer is just that: a printer­—not completely unlike other printers and imaging devices that you are already sending files to.
2. The cost of a 3D printer is not prohibitive. The Stratasys Dimension 1200 that my company put on our floor about six months ago cost less than $35,000. Some of the smaller units targeted to the hobbyist and school market are well under $4,000. And the price of 3D equipment will only drop going forward.
3. For certain organizations, 3D services are a natural fit, and in many cases 3D equipment may have already been purchased by your parent organization. 3D is definitely a natural for public school systems, universities and manufacturing operations. Obviously, not every type of organization may have a compelling need for 3D. But for others, 3D is a truly great fit. And who better to provide the 3D service than the in-plant?

The demand for 3D services will continue to grow, and will probably grow explosively. Because of all the media attention given to 3D technology recently, many people are looking at ways 3D technology can fit what they are doing.