Key Takeaways
- The global value of parts produced using 3D printing is expected to reach $110 billion annually by 2034.
- The market is growing at scale, with a projected value of $24.5 billion in 2025.
- Aerospace remains a key sector for metal additive manufacturing, accounting for roughly one-fifth of global metal AM part value.
- High-value applications, such as aircraft engines and space systems, drive the demand for additive manufacturing.
Introduction to 3D Printing in Production
The use of 3D printing in production is becoming increasingly prevalent, with the global value of parts produced using this technology expected to reach $110 billion annually by 2034. According to a report by Additive Manufacturing Research (AM Research), the market is growing at scale, with a projected value of $24.5 billion in 2025. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of additive manufacturing across multiple industries, including aerospace, healthcare, and automotive.
High-Value Applications
Aerospace remains one of the most important sectors for metal additive manufacturing, particularly in terms of value. The report estimates that aerospace applications account for roughly one-fifth of global metal AM part value, reflecting the continued use of 3D printing for complex, performance-critical components. These include parts for aircraft engines, space systems, and advanced defense platforms, where weight reduction and design flexibility offer clear advantages.
Comparison of Additive Manufacturing Applications
| Application | Industry | Projected Value (2025) | Growth Rate (2025-2034) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace | Metal AM | $4.9 billion | 15% |
| Healthcare | Polymer AM | $1.2 billion | 20% |
| Automotive | Metal AM | $2.5 billion | 12% |
Market Expansion
The report highlights the steady expansion of additive manufacturing across multiple industries, driven not just by experimentation, but by real production use. The analysis tracks how many parts are being made, where they are used, and how much value they represent. This approach provides a more accurate picture of the market's growth and potential.
Bottom Line
The use of 3D printing in production is becoming increasingly prevalent, with the global value of parts produced using this technology expected to reach $110 billion annually by 2034. With a projected value of $24.5 billion in 2025, the market is growing at scale, driven by the increasing adoption of additive manufacturing across multiple industries. As the technology continues to advance and become more widely adopted, we can expect to see significant growth in the use of 3D printing in production, particularly in high-value applications such as aerospace and healthcare.