3D Printing is one of the most prominent innovations set to transform product development across all industries – from tools, parts and appliances to food products, R&D trials, and medical equipment. The global 3D printing market was worth USD 12.6 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 22.5%[1]. The technology allows the construction of a three-dimensional object through successive layers of material built up in an additive way using a computer-aided design (CAD) file to create the desired object. CAD provides the benefit of imagining customized shapes and designs & prints the product at a remarkable speed and optimal cost without undergoing existing manufacturing limitations, such as casting and machine manufacture, which is labour, energy and cost-intensive.

The transforming wave of 3D printing technology has been witnessed in the agribusiness industry, resulting in a wider adoption towards the farm operations & farm equipment segment. Companies can now scan the equipment design and store them in CAD and print whenever there is demand from the market. It allows companies to cut down massively on storage costs at warehouses & transport costs and prevent overproduction of the equipment. Farmers can also reap benefits from this technology, reducing their dependence and difficulty in affording expensive spare parts or equipment during farming. The below infographic highlights 3D printing potential applications in agribusiness:

While 3D printing technologies provide many potential benefits, as stated in the above infographics, the adoption of this emerging technology is presently challenged by various factors. Some lack the skilled talent to harness the technology potential, printers and print material etc. There is a need for a transparent framework to protect and safeguard the novel 3D print products, printing consumables and required validation. The quality, material usage, and safety protocols also need to be developed.

[1] ReportLinker – 3D Printing Market by Offering, Process, Application, Vertical, Technology And Geography Report, 2021

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