3D printing has been quickly evolving, becoming more and more important to science, medicine, entertainment, and industry. Predictions for growth in the field of additive manufacturing have been extremely high for the next few years, and ambitious companies are eager to rise to the challenge. Among these is Neff Capital Management LLC, a private equity firm from Florida that is investing $10 million in the creation of a company called Sintavia. The purpose of this new company will be to produce 3D printed parts for the aerospace and defense industry.
Indeed, the demand for 3D printing from aerospace and defense is already showing great potential. Now that reliable parts are being printed out of metal, these industries are exploring the possibilities for increased use of additive manufacturing. According to the US Department of Energy Advanced Manufacturing Office, some aircraft can decrease their weight by 7% through the use of 3D printed parts. Meanwhile, a LEAP engine fuel nozzle produced with 3D printing technology has been shown to increase fuel efficiency, cutting costs and emissions by 15%.
