AMPOWER is an additive manufacturing consultancy dedicated to accelerating the adoption of 3D technologies worldwide. The company regularly publishes market studies and reports that shed light on the 3D printing industry. It has just unveiled its latest project, which analyzes the sector as a whole, by technology, region, materials in 2024, potential market growth and latest trends.
It probably should come as no surprise, but AMPOWER states that the sector grew by just 2% in 2024, with the polymer and metal segments valued at over 10 billion euros. Interestingly, however, defense is one of the few sectors to record an increase in equipment sales. In the current geopolitical context, this is less surprising and raises a few questions. But what are all these trends? How will the market bounce back?
Global market for metal and polymer additive manufacturing from 2020 to 2024 and forecast for 2029 (photo credits: AMPOWER)
First, it is important to say that 2024 has been a complicated year for not just additive manufacturin,g but also for industry in general. Therefore, it is perhaps not surprising that the market only recorded 2% growth. And there is still much to be positive about: AMPOWER forecasts annual growth of 13% per year until 2029, to reach a value of 20 billion euros in terms of sales of machines, materials and 3D printed parts.
Although revised slightly downwards from previous years, this growth is expected to be driven by polymer and metal technologies. Their sales are almost identical, but the polymer technology derives its revenues from materials and part sales, showing a more obvious maturity.
The report further highlights the growing consumption of polymers, whatever their form – powder, resin, filament. PA12 remains the most widely used material – it is the most widely used material in SLS solutions. The latter remains the favorite when it comes to industrial polymer 3D printing. TPU powder, however, is increasingly in demand.
On the metal side, the trend is clear: laser powder bed fusion is driving the market. In fact, AMPOWER reveals that over 80% of revenues in this segment are generated by a dozen companies. These are mainly manufacturers such as EOS, Colibirum Additive, BLT and Nikon SLM Solutions. The market study explains that competition is particularly fierce in this segment, with more and more players offering this metal additive manufacturing process. Could we then expect a consolidation of the market, with future synergies to drive the market forward? Only time will tell.
Finally, the report looks at the industries that generate the most revenue when it comes to 3D printing. In 2024, it was defense-related projects that recorded encouraging results. The current context is a major factor in this, and favors the adoption of additive manufacturing in this sector. This trend is set to continue until 2029, with investments doubling. To read the report, click HERE.
What do you think of the AMPOWER report? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.
*Cover Photo Credits : Nota3D
View Comments (1)
This is an insightful analysis of the additive manufacturing market. The resurgence driven by the defense sector aligns with global geopolitical shifts and increased demand for localized, on-demand production. Given AMPOWER's projection of 13% annual growth until 2029, how do you see this impacting investment in emerging AM technologies, such as Wire DED or hybrid manufacturing solutions? Also, do you think market consolidation in the metal AM segment will lead to more innovation or just increased competition?