The Netherlands-based desk-top 3-D printing company Ultimaker has released its first annual ‘3D Printing Sentiment Index’.
Based on independent research conducted by Savanta, this gives a comprehensive view of the current and future potential for 3-D printing in 12 countries world-wide, while covering the widest range of ‘verticals and professions’, including education.
The index reveals that the USA, the UK and Germany have the highest expectations for implementing additive manufacturing and capitalising on its opportunities, followed by France, China, Japan, Mexico, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and India.
The index was based on 2,548 interviews with qualified professionals and in-depth analysis of macro-economic factors.
Five key elements were investigated: market awareness; adoption and installed base; 3-D printing growth indicators; perceived future impact and optimism; and technology infrastructure and ease of adoption.
Overall, 67% of respondents are currently aware of the terms ‘3-D printing’ and ‘additive manufacturing’, but only 35% have adopted the technology.
Two thirds (65%) think that 3-D printing will revolutionise their industry, while nearly 40% say that it will bring significant operational efficiencies and cost savings to their business over the coming 12 months — indicating the market’s rapid evolution.
The survey shows that the Netherlands (83%), Switzerland (82%) and the USA (77%) have the highest levels of awareness; by investigating the number of businesses that have adopted 3-D printing and used the technology for more than five years, the survey determined the current maturity level in various countries.
In China, 53% of businesses have adopted 3-D printing and 11% have used it for more than five years, followed by the USA (34% and 19% respectively) and France (42% and 8%).
When the 67% of respondents who are aware of the technology were asked about their current and future 3-D printing budgets, China, India, and the Netherlands came top, with the highest current budget and future investment plans over the next 12 months.
Wang Peng, secretary-general of the Additive Manufacturing Alliance of China, said: “3-D printing is entering a golden period in China.
“After years of development, it has turned from an innovative concept to something quite helpful in upgrading manufacturing plants.”
Further details of the index can be found at the Web site (
3d.ultimaker.com/Ultimaker-3D-Printing-Sentiment-Index).