Rapid prototyping continues double-digit growth

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jun 8, 2006

The market for additive fabrication (also known as rapid prototyping) grew 14.6% to an estimated $808.5 million in 2005, up from $705.2 million in 2004.

The market for additive fabrication (also known as rapid prototyping) grew 14.6% to an estimated $808.5 million in 2005, up from $705.2 million in 2004.

Growth was 33.3% and 9.2% in 2004 and 2003, respectively.

These totals include all products and services for additive fabrication worldwide.

The industry has remained solid after a spectacular 2004.

Systems, materials and services experienced double-digit growth in 2005, although growth was not as strong as the previous year.

Interest in the less expensive 3D printer-class of machine continues to drive demand in the 70 countries in which additive systems were sold last year.

Revenues generated by 3D printer sales were up 35.2% in 2005, making 3D printers the fastest growing segment of the industry.

The services segment of the industry remains healthy.

In 2003, service providers experienced a moderate turnaround.

In 2004, this segment mounted a very impressive comeback.

Results from 2005 show that the companies in the services business have positioned themselves for sustained growth, which was quite uncertain prior to 2003.

The data are taken from Wohlers Report 2006, a 250-page global market study.

The new publication covers all facets of the industry, including business, product, market, technology, research, and application.

47 co-authors, 53 service providers, 27 system manufacturers and many others assisted with its development.

To support the review and analysis, the softbound publication includes 26 charts and graphs, 44 tables, 131 photographs and illustrations, and seven appendixes.