3D Printing
Market Opportunities in Germany
With 37 manufacturers who produce and sell industrial AM systems, Germany ranks first within Europe and - together with China- second worldwide after the US.
AM for Climate Neutrality
Germany’s climate goals to achieve climate neutrality by 2045 is creating attractive business opportunities and favorable conditions for AM companies. Additive manufacturing technologies have the potential to revolutionize production and create sustainable advantages by producing lightweight components, reducing waste, optimizing supply chains, and reducing time to market. Some AM processes allow the use of 100 percent reusable green materials. Cross-industry partnerships and digital design technologies can potentially support sustainable development goals, with efficient value chain management also helping reduce industry’s carbon footprint.
AM Metal Machine Sector
Revenue from AM metal machines has grown strongly with an increase of 27.2 percent to more than USD 1.4 billion worldwide in 2022. Europe is the leader in this area, with 49 manufacturers of AM metal systems in 2022 - compared to 23 in the US and 16 in China. The installed base for metal AM system is currently dominated by German manufacturers including EOS, SLM Solutions and Trumpf. Taking into account the Concept Laser facilities, acquired by US group General Electric in 2017, system technology produced in Germany makes up more than half of the globally installed base.
AM Metal Machine Research Leader
Germany is also a leader in the field of research and development of metal AM systems. The Fraunhofer ILT is generally regarded as the founder of laser-based additive manufacturing. RWTHA Aachen, for instance, also conducts research on processing low-cost steel using AM and hot isostatic pressing in the framework of its HIGHRES project.
AM Plant Applications
AM plant technology sales by industry reflect the broad application potential. The figure below shows the uniform distribution across a wide range of industries, with the segments automotive, aerospace, and medical technology and dental forming a focal point with around half of the total market. Germany boasts numerous manufacturing facilities in these industries.
