When do industry experts expect AM will become a $20 billion industry?

The expectation of the additive manufacturing (AM) industry reaching a $20 billion valuation around 2020 is grounded in optimistic market growth predictions made by industry analysts at that time. During this period, there was significant investment in advancing AM technologies and increased applications across various sectors, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical.

This prediction was based on trends indicating that the adoption of 3D printing and related technologies was accelerating, with notable developments in materials and processes that expanded potential applications. Furthermore, the rise of efficient manufacturing techniques and personalized production options were seen to drive demand for AM solutions.

By predicting this milestone for 2020, experts emphasized the rapid innovation and integration of AM within traditional manufacturing sectors, anticipating that the combined growth of technology advancements and market interest would lead to substantial financial outcomes within a relatively short time frame. This context highlights a phase of great enthusiasm for AM, reflecting its potential to disrupt conventional manufacturing practices.