David Thompson

Cost is always a big consideration, whether we're manufacturing electronics or anything else. But also we've got the benefits to consider, striking a balance between cost-efficiency and effective performance.

For materials, additive manufacturing can appear more expensive than traditional manufacturing. Polymeric, composite, and hybrid materials all need to be modified and prepared, which can increase the cost when compared with traditional manufacturing.

However, there's also the nature of the process to take into account. Additive manufacturing is exactly that—it's additive. We are adding precisely the amount of material required to complete the component. Wastage is brought to a minimum, reducing the overall cost of materials.

This also has a big impact on sustainability, eliminating additional unwanted material that then needs to be disposed of.

There's no getting away from the cost of additive manufacturing materials. But with proper planning, these costs are manageable.