Wohlers Associates cites 76-percent growth in metal additive manufacturing

Fort Collins, CO - Additive manufacturing (AM) systems for metal parts are increasing in popularity, according to Wohlers Associates' Wohlers Report 2014. The report, now in its 19th year, includes an in-depth review and analysis of additive manufacturing and 3D printing—terms that are used interchangeably. The worldwide study includes industry growth, competitive products and services, and a futuristic view on an industry that is creating unprecedented interest and excitement.

The company has been tracking the market for machines that produce metal parts for 14 years. Wohlers Report 2014 marks only the second time for the company to publish detailed information on metal based AM machine unit sales by year. The following chart shows that 348 of these machines were sold in 2013, compared to 198 in 2012—growth of an impressive 75.8 percent.

“Companies such as Airbus, General Electric, and Lima Corporate are using these machines to produce complex metal parts for next-generation aerospace and medical products,” says Terry Wohlers, founder and president of Wohlers Associates and a principal author of the new report.

Wohlers Report 2014 is a comprehensive study that covers all aspects of 3D printing, including its history, applications, processes, materials, and manufacturers. It covers developments in R&D, investment, collaborative activities in government, academia, and industry, and summarizes the state of the industry from a global perspective.

The 276-page annual study includes 35 charts and graphs, 60 tables, and 248 images and illustrations. The report, which sells for $495, was created with support from 82 service providers, 29 system manufacturers, and contributions from 70 co-authors in 24 countries.

For more information, please visit http://wohlersassociates.com.