ARTICLES

  • 3D printing evolving from developing prototypes to end-user products, mass customization, production of complex parts, government investments in projects and improvements in manufacturing efficiency are expected to drive growth in the 3D printing market. By the end of the decade, this industry is expected to witness double digit growth. The industry is far more segmented than recognized - segmented on the basis of printer, material type, material form, process, technology, software, service, application, vertical and geography. High production cost to individual users, expensive 3D printing software, lack of channel partner assistance, and scarcity of skilled labour are some of the key restraining factors. Read more in Double digit growth in 3D printing offers methodologies to make manufacturing of complex designs a reality
  • Revenues in the additive manufacturing (AM) formulations market in 3D Printing are estimated to almost doubled from 2014 to 2020. Growth will be driven by demand from aerospace, medical/dental and electronics sector in North America and Europe. Materials and equipment manufacturing will grow is China and South Korea. Lack of dedicated supply strategy in place for the 3D printing market by chemical manufacturers on account of low volumes vs high investments, is expected to hold back growth. Read more in North America, Europe drive additive manufacturing formulations market in 3D Printing
  • Instead of traditional wood or concrete and steel when erecting replacement bridges, plastic has become the preferred material. Since a plastic bridge can be installed in just a single day, it minimizes traffic detours and other disruptions while saving time, money and resources. Plastic composite-based bridges offer exceptional longevity and are relatively low-maintenance compared to conventional building materials. Repairs and routine upkeep are rather easy while the need for total replacement every couple of decades is almost null, as FRP bridges last for almost a 100 years. Read more in Fiber-reinforced polymers find increasing application in bridges
  • Factors such as low production waste and faster production process, along with the ability to use different types of raw materials simultaneously along with deployment of robots for different operations will foster growth of the global plastics molded market. Packaging was the leading application segment for injection molding, accounting for around 37% of the overall market share, while healthcare will be the fastest growing end use industry segment. North America was the leading market, accounting for around 35% of the global share, while Asia-Pacific and LAMEA have witnessed large-scale demand. Read more in Healthcare to grow fastest, packaging to remain dominant in global injection molded plastics market
  • Demand for injection molded plastics in the Gulf Cooperation Council is likely to be driven by rising demand for packaging and construction applications. Molded plastic components are used in packaging applications to manufacture parts and components with increased aesthetic value and consumer friendliness. Popularity of injection molded plastics in building and construction applications is increasing owing to the strength, durability, and texture of plastic parts - mainly used for piping systems, insulations, wall boards, and roofing purposes among others. Unpredictable demand in key export markets such as Europe and the Middle East is likely to stall growth of the injection molded plastics market while investments in R&D and product portfolio expansion is anticipated to open avenues for growth. Read more in Molded plastics market in GCC to be driven by rising demand from packaging and construction