3D printing is one of the most flexible and cost-effective prototyping methods. There are few better ways to test designs at a cost-effective price point, helping designers iterate through the rapid prototyping development cycle from low-fidelity concept models to near-production prototypes.
But what about using 3D printing for production? The argument for 3D printing production is often assessed against injection molding production, in which custom parts can be produced at just a few cents per unit after tool amortization, with strong mechanical properties, and with strikingly clean cosmetics.
