Introduction to 3D Printing - What can the technology do
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3D printing is a technology that in recent years has been gaining ground in development, production, and research. The possibilities are particularly linked to design freedom, reduced waste, and customization of products in small series. But what does 3D printing actually cover, why does it make sense to use the technology, and how is it used in practice?
Flexible manufacturing and fewer technical limitations
3D printing – also known as additive manufacturing (AM) – covers a range of technologies where physical parts are built up layer by layer from a digital model.
In contrast to more classical manufacturing methods such as milling and turning, where material is removed from a larger workpiece, or mold-based processes such as casting, where liquid material is poured into a physical mold, in 3D printing the part is built up layer by layer without the use of molds. Here, material is added only where it is needed, and the design can be changed digitally from one part to the next without the need for new tools or molds.
This opens up new possibilities for producing complex and customized components, often without special tools and without large initial costs.
In addition, 3D printing enables on-demand production, closer to the end user and in situ. Since the technology does not require a long value chain with finished goods inventories or complex logistics solutions, you can simply print components when the need arises. This limits both storage requirements and the risk of overproduction, while at the same time providing greater freedom to adapt geometry and function than is often possible with traditional manufacturing methods.
Adoption and use of 3D printing in Denmark
According to Statistics Denmark, around one in four Danish manufacturing companies use 3D printing technology to a greater or lesser extent. In most cases, this involves the production of prototypes, test parts, and simple tools. This use enables faster iterations in development processes and flexible solutions for specific needs.
However, the major industrial applications – high‑strength metal parts, complete components, and parts for aviation, space, and healthcare – are still seen only to a limited extent in Denmark, even though the potential is great in these domains, where weight, geometry, and durability are particularly essential factors.
How to gain value from 3D printing
3D printing is never a value in itself, but 3D printing can add a value that other manufacturing methods can hardly provide. The added value can take many forms. It is therefore worth assessing where in the value chain the technology can come into its own.
Is it in product development, where rapid prototypes make it possible to shorten development cycles? Is it in the production of specialized components, where conventional methods are not sufficient? Or in the opportunity to offer customers more customized solutions? Perhaps the value lies in being able to produce on site?
Next, it is about both technical and organizational competencies. Developers must be able to design with additive manufacturing in mind and understand the possibilities and limitations of the materials. At the same time, management and business functions should have insight into the economic and commercial potentials and limitations the technology brings with it. It is when 3D printing is considered early in both design and business model that the advantages are truly realized.
For most companies for whom 3D printing is a relatively unknown area, it makes good sense to seek feedback and experience from external partners. For example, the Technological Institute offers advice on technology selection, competence development, and business implementation. Such collaboration can often be the key to getting off to a good start.
Adding AM to the toolbox
Both in Denmark and internationally, 3D printing is moving from niche practice to more common use. Developments are moving quickly, and we continue to see a stream of new players and solutions entering the market. Especially from China, cheaper machines and services are putting pressure on existing technologies, and this may affect accessibility and cost levels in the coming years.
However, the industrial breakthrough has not yet been fully realized, and 3D printing will hardly completely replace classical production methods. Instead, the technology is expected to find its natural place as a flexible supplement in companies’ toolboxes – especially where the need is customization, rapid development, or optimization of resource consumption.
3D printing at Danish Technological Institute
At the Danish Technological Institute, we have 37 years of experience with 3D printing, and we print in both metal and plastic for a wide range of customers, and we also operate Denmark’s only center for Industrial 3D Printing. This has given us a unique insight into the many possible applications of the technology – and of course we are happy to share them.
Our experience covers everything from the development of prototypes and small series to the use of 3D printing as an integrated part of the production chain.
We focus on delivering a complete solution and therefore offer a cohesive value chain from design optimization, through manufacturing, post‑processing, quality assurance/certification, to technology transfer and implementation in industry.
In our modern laboratories in Aarhus, we have various printing technologies at our disposal, allowing us to tailor a solution that fits you precisely. You are always welcome to contact us for a non‑binding discussion of your options.
We also offer a range of courses in 3D printing and can arrange a specific course program tailored to your company and your employees’ needs.