Additive Manufacturing: Concepts and Amazing Careers

July 28, 2023 Stemta Corporation

Additive Manufacturing (AM), often referred to as 3D printing, has revolutionized the way we manufacture products in various industries. Additive manufacturing jobs and this cutting-edge technology has opened doors to innovative designs, increased efficiency, and reduced production costs.

What is Additive Manufacturing?

Additive Manufacturing Jobs involve a process of creating three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer based on digital 3D models. Unlike traditional subtractive manufacturing, which involves cutting or machining materials to shape, AM builds objects from the ground up, making it highly efficient and versatile. The process starts with a digital design file, which is sliced into multiple cross-sectional layers. These layers are then successively added using various AM technologies, such as powder bed fusion, material extrusion, binder jetting, and more, until the final object is created.

Additive Manufacturing Market revenue to be over $100 Billion by 2035

The global additive manufacturing market is projected to experience a remarkable expansion at an Annual Growth Rate of approximately 21% between 2023 and 2035. By the end of 2035, the market is anticipated to generate a substantial revenue of USD 100 billion, a significant increase from the revenue of approximately USD 14 billion recorded in 2022. This impressive growth is primarily attributed to the increasing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, necessitating the production of lightweight automobiles. With approximately 1.4 billion vehicles being discarded worldwide, there is a growing emphasis on introducing new lightweight vehicles. Additive manufacturing plays a pivotal role in this endeavor by enabling the creation of intricate geometrics and optimized structures that effectively reduce the weight of automobile components. The use of materials such as alloys, steel, aluminum, and polymer composites in vehicle manufacturing is known to reduce the vehicle’s weight by up to 50%. This transformative technology is revolutionizing the automotive industry and driving the market’s rapid expansion.

Differences Between Additive Manufacturing Jobs and 3D Printing

While the terms “Additive Manufacturing” and “3D Printing” are often used interchangeably, they do have distinct differences:

1. Terminology: Additive Manufacturing is a broader term that encompasses all processes involved in creating a 3D object layer by layer. 3D Printing, on the other hand, specifically refers to the AM process of creating objects through material deposition, typically using extrusion technologies.
2. Scope: Additive Manufacturing includes a wide range of technologies and materials used to create objects, from plastics to metals and ceramics. Conversely, 3D printing predominantly deals with plastic-based materials.
3. Industrial Applications: Additive Manufacturing is extensively used in industrial sectors like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and more. 3D Printing, while also used in industry, is often associated with consumer-grade desktop printers used for prototyping and hobby projects.

Additive Manufacturing Jobs and Careers

As Additive Manufacturing continues to advance and gain traction across various industries, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is soaring. Some of the top job opportunities and careers in Additive Manufacturing include:

1. Additive Manufacturing Engineer: These professionals are responsible for designing and optimizing AM processes, selecting suitable materials, and ensuring the quality of printed products.
2. CAD Designer: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) designers create digital 3D models of products, components, or prototypes that will be manufactured using AM technologies.
3. Materials Scientist: Experts in materials science are crucial for developing and testing new materials compatible with different AM processes.
4. Application Engineer: Application engineers work closely with clients to understand their specific needs and develop tailor-made solutions using AM technologies.
5. Quality Control Specialist: Quality control professionals ensure that AM processes adhere to strict standards, and the final products meet the required specifications.

Top Additive Manufacturing Jobs, Employers, and Salary Ranges

Several companies have been at the forefront of Additive Manufacturing innovation. As of 2023, some top employers in the field include:

1. Stratasys: A global leader in 3D printing and AM solutions for prototyping and manufacturing.
2. 3D Systems: A pioneer in AM technologies, offering a wide range of 3D printing solutions.
3. General Electric (GE): Known for its significant investments in AM technologies for aerospace and other industries.
4. HP (Hewlett-Packard): Renowned for its industrial 3D printing solutions and applications.
5. Materialise: A Belgium-based company specializing in software solutions and 3D printing services.

Salaries in Additive Manufacturing Jobs can vary widely depending on the job role, experience, location, and the employer’s size and reputation. As of 2021, the average salaries were as follows:

• Additive Manufacturing Engineer: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
• CAD Designer: $50,000 – $80,000 per year
• Materials Scientist: $80,000 – $120,000 per year
• Application Engineer: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
• Quality Control Specialist: $60,000 – $80,000 per year

Additive Manufacturing Jobs have ushered in a new era of production, redefining the way we create objects and components across various industries. The distinctions between AM and 3D printing highlight the technology’s depth and versatility. As Additive Manufacturing Jobs continue to grow, the demand for skilled professionals is set to increase, making Additive Manufacturing an exciting and promising career path for individuals passionate about innovation, design, and technology. With top employers offering competitive salary packages, the future looks bright for those looking to forge a career in this dynamic and transformative industry.

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