The desire to bring manufacturing back to the USA as opposed to overseas is a constant conversation, rightfully so, as it makes sense for the US economy. Onshore manufacturing means lowered costs to the consumer, better business growth, and an improved domestic supply chain.
While decision-makers have put several policies and practices in place throughout the years to address these issues, there’s a new kid on the block that might make bigger waves than its predecessors: additive manufacturing (3D printing).
Earlier this year, the US government announced the launch of Additive Manufacturing Forward (AM Forward). This initiative joins together five leading US-based manufacturers in a voluntary effort to help smaller US-based suppliers increase their utilization of 3D printing. Those leading manufacturers include GE Aviation, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Siemens with hopefully more to join.
In essence, AM Forward encourages those large, needle-moving companies to source 3D-printed parts from small companies. You may ask, “What’s the big deal?”
3D printing can help make USA-based manufacturing cheaper than traditional factory methods. Not only is that an incredible benefit for organizations, but it also leaks into the consumer market and makes everyday products more affordable for the public.
This statement comes straight from The White House briefing room:
“AM Forward will help lower costs for American families by improving the competitiveness of America’s small and medium-sized manufacturers, creating and sustaining high-paying manufacturing jobs, and improving supply chain resilience through adoption of additive manufacturing.”
Additive manufacturing is a hopeful winner for the future of US production. Machines can take computer-based data (CAD files) and transmit it to an industrial 3D printer. Then, those printers can pump out parts on demand and on spec right within the supplier’s workshop. Domestic companies can use this to their advantage to (1) reduce the number of parts needed for their product and to (2) minimize costs resulting from overseas factory production.
Ideally, the AM Forward initiative will drive further awareness of 3D printing and nudge domestic manufacturers to explore the technology further.
Partner With a US-based Additive Manufacturer
Whether you are an established business or a hopeful entrepreneur or solopreneur with a product idea, you can reap the benefits of additive manufacturing by partnering with a US-based additive manufacturer that can take your ideas and create a working prototype or end-use parts for you.
CADimensions 3D printing solutions give companies access to produce a single prototype or goods in high-volume on-demand. That means no more long lead times, producing products with fewer constraints, and cheaper costs.
With the Stratasys H350 SAF Printer, CADimensions can print your parts in high volume. It uses SAF technology to produce engineering-grade parts with precise geometric accuracy. From bulky, complex, or simple parts, this SAF printer maintains consistency and power.
