ABSTRACT
3D printing is used by clinicians to create assistive devices that overcome disabilities or reproduce the function of missing limbs. Bioprinting technologies are being developed that work with living cells to replace organs and body tissues. Few manufacturing news stories get picked up by the mainstream media, let alone make it to the cover of The Economist magazine, which called 3D printing the "Third Industrial Revolution." Near-net printing is a strategy that combines additive manufacturing and traditional machining to achieve a result better than either can produce on its own. Some 3D methods leave parts with unsuitable finishes that require post-processing. Companies are using 3D printing as a communication tool to share product design details with vendors to reduce errors and lead times. New material choices, improved production readiness, simpler operation, better reliability, and lower prices will contribute to continued dramatic growth of 3D printing across all industry sectors.
