I've done a full financial model for 3D printing, but that doesn't give you an idea of the actual potential revenues that people do make in such a business. It is just a financial planner for anyone to plug their own assumptions into in order to produce a cash flow analysis / DCF Analysis and general pro forma. So the question is, how much do 3D printing businesses make and what are some popular niches?
The amount of money a 3D printing machine can make depends on various factors such as the type of 3D printer, the materials used, the printing speed, the level of automation, the market demand, and the price charged per printed item.
If you have a high-end 3D printing machine that can produce large quantities of high-quality products, you can potentially make a substantial amount of money. However, if you have a low-cost 3D printer that produces low-quality products, the amount of money you can make will be lower.
It is also important to consider the cost of materials, electricity, and maintenance when calculating the potential profit. Additionally, competition in the market can affect the amount of money you can make.
Revenue Earnings Potential of Various Types of 3D Printers:
- Consumer-grade FDM 3D printers: These are entry-level 3D printers that use fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology to print objects using plastic filaments. Depending on the size and quality of the prints, a single consumer-grade FDM 3D printer can earn anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per year.
- Professional-grade FDM 3D printers: These 3D printers are typically used in industries such as engineering, architecture, and product design. They offer higher print quality and larger build volumes than consumer-grade 3D printers. Depending on the complexity and size of the objects printed, a single professional-grade FDM 3D printer can earn anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 per year.
- SLA 3D printers: These 3D printers use stereolithography technology to print objects using a liquid resin that is cured by a UV laser. SLA 3D printers offer high accuracy and resolution, making them popular in industries such as jewelry, dental, and medical. Depending on the size and complexity of the objects printed, a single SLA 3D printer can earn anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 per year.
- SLS 3D printers: These 3D printers use selective laser sintering technology to print objects using a powder material that is fused together by a laser. SLS 3D printers offer high accuracy and strength, making them popular in industries such as aerospace and automotive. Depending on the size and complexity of the objects printed, a single SLS 3D printer can earn anywhere from $20,000 to $200,000 per year.
Larger 3D Printing Companies Earnings:
- Stratasys: Stratasys is a leading provider of 3D printing solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. In 2020, Stratasys reported revenue of $519 million.
- 3D Systems: 3D Systems is a pioneer in the 3D printing industry and offers a wide range of 3D printing solutions for various industries. In 2020, 3D Systems reported revenue of $448 million.
- EOS: EOS is a German company that specializes in industrial 3D printing for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. In 2020, EOS reported revenue of €135 million (approximately $161 million).
- Materialise: Materialise is a Belgian company that provides 3D printing software and services for industries such as healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods. In 2020, Materialise reported revenue of €196 million (approximately $233 million).
- Ultimaker: Ultimaker is a Dutch company that offers desktop 3D printers for businesses and consumers. In 2020, Ultimaker reported revenue of €71 million (approximately $84 million).
There are many popular 3D printing niches that have emerged in recent years, and some of them have proven to be highly profitable. Here are some examples of popular 3D printing niches and their estimated revenue:
Example 3D Printing Niches and Their Revenues
- Jewelry: 3D printing is being used to create unique and intricate designs for jewelry. According to a report by SmarTech Analysis, the global market for 3D printed jewelry is expected to reach $2.6 billion by 2025.
- Prosthetics: 3D printing is being used to create custom prosthetics at a fraction of the cost of traditional prosthetics. According to the National Center for Health Research, the market for 3D printed prosthetics is expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2026.
- Aerospace and Defense: 3D printing is being used to create parts for airplanes and spacecraft, which can save time and money. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global market for 3D printing in aerospace and defense is expected to reach $3.9 billion by 2025
- Dental: 3D printing is being used to create dental implants, dentures, and other dental devices. According to a report by Transparency Market Research, the global market for 3D printed dental products is expected to reach $9.5 billion by 2027.
- Education: 3D printing is being used in education to teach students about design and engineering. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global market for 3D printing in education is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2026.
It's worth noting that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on a number of factors such as market demand, competition, and pricing strategies. Additionally, there are many other 3D printing niches that can be profitable, depending on the entrepreneur's skills, interests, and market research.
