How is additive manufacturing used in industry?

June 9, 2025

INTECH3D is the leading 3D printing and scanning consultancy in the region. With a comprehensive approach to the development, implementation, and customization of advanced 3D printing solutions, we specialize in the integration of tailored 3D technologies specifically designed to drive digitalization and optimize manufacturing processes.


Below, we explain how to apply additive manufacturing in the industrial sector. 

What is additive manufacturing, and how does it work?

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is a manufacturing process that builds objects layer by layer from a digital model. Unlike traditional subtractive methods, additive manufacturing allows the creation of complex geometries with high precision and without the need for expensive tooling.

This process is fundamental in Industry 4.0, as it enables more flexible, customised, and efficient production. Leading companies in sectors such as electronics, automotive, and healthcare are already adopting this technology to improve their operations and reduce costs.

Benefits of 3D printing in industry 

The implementation of 3D printing and 3D scanners in industrial environments represents a strategic opportunity to improve production processes. It not only offers technical advantages, but also economic and logistical ones, positioning the companies that adopt it at the forefront of technological change.

By using a 3D printer or scanner in their daily operations, companies access a series of tangible benefits across different sectors:

  • Reduction in costs and production times: The elimination of expensive tools and molds speeds up the manufacturing process and reduces associated operational costs.
  • Mass customization: The ability to adapt designs to the specific needs of each client without significantly increasing unit costs.
  • Design optimization: The possibility to create lighter, more efficient, and functional structures that improve product performance and are impossible to manufacture with traditional methods.
  • Sustainability: Additive manufacturing generates less material waste compared to traditional methods, contributing to greener and more environmentally friendly practices.
  • On-demand production: Manufacture only when needed, reducing unnecessary inventories and improving overall logistics.
  • Time-to-market reduction: Rapid and agile prototyping that shortens development cycles and speeds up the product's arrival to market.

Additive manufacturing applications in industry

The 3D printing applications in industry are increasingly broad and strategic. What began as a tool for rapid prototyping has evolved into an advanced manufacturing technology, capable of producing everything from functional parts to finished products ready for the market.

 

Main applications
Rapid prototyping
Production of functional parts
Customized tools
Low-volume serial production

Which industries are making the most of additive manufacturing?

3D printing technology has become a key resource for sectors requiring agile, customized solutions with a high level of detail. Its versatility leads to improved processes, reduced costs, and accelerated development of products tailored to specific needs.


Some of the most benefited sectors include:

Electronics

In the electronics sector, additive manufacturing enables the development of parts with complex and customized geometries, such as housings for electronic devices and internal components, optimized because of space and functionality. It also reduces prototyping times and facilitates the design of parts with improved heat dissipation, something fundamental in products such as laptops, smartphones, and portable devices.

Types of industrial 3D printers

There are various types of industrial 3D printers, each designed to meet specific needs depending on the material, the required precision, and the final product's use. Selecting the right technology is key to ensuring the quality, efficiency, and profitability of the manufacturing process.

Among the most commonly used in industrial settings are:

  • Industrial resin 3D printers: Offer high precision and resolution for parts with a great level of detail. Frequently used in sectors such as jewelry, dentistry, medicine, and electronics, where dimensional accuracy is critical.
  • Industrial metal 3D printers: Enable the production of fully functional metal parts, even with complex geometries. Widely used in automotive, aerospace, industrial engineering, and heavy machinery manufacturing.
  • FDM printers (Fused Deposition Modelling): The most widespread due to their affordable cost and ease of use. Ideal for rapid prototyping and low-volume production of functional plastic parts in educational, technical, and industrial sectors.
  • Industrial 3D printers for construction: Used to print structures or architectural elements with materials such as concrete or special composites.

 

At INTECH3D we work with the latest 3D printing technologies on the market, selecting the most suitable one based on the characteristics, sector, and technical requirements of each customer, assuring effective, precise, and tailored solutions for every project.

The future of additive manufacturing in industry

3D printing is rapidly evolving towards greater integration with advanced digital processes, such as generative design, artificial intelligence, and industrial automation. This multidisciplinary approach not only improves efficiency but also drives a new era of smart and connected manufacturing.

Additionally, 3D printing aligns with the industry's sustainability goals by enabling on-demand manufacturing, minimizing waste, and reducing the logistics footprint through local production, which supports more circular and resilient production models. Key trends include:

Material improvements

The development of new, durable materials such as advanced metals and plastics, expanding industrial applications.

Integration with other technologies

Combining robotics and AI for automated processes.

Personalized mass production

Additive manufacturing is making it possible to scale production while maintaining customization.

Sustainability

Reduction of waste, lower energy consumption, and smaller inventories thanks to on-demand manufacturing.

Digitalize your company with 3D technology

At INTECH3D, we have collaborated on several projects with leading companies in the industrial sector that demonstrate the true potential and impact of additive manufacturing. These cases show how this technology enhances and transforms production with more agile, efficient processes tailored to every need.

Below, we present some of our most outstanding success stories. If you'd like to discover how additive manufacturing can boost your company, don't hesitate to contact us or explore our customized solutions.

Contact us

Do you need more information about any of our solutions or would you like us to advise you on how to integrate 4.0 technology in your company?