Is the global shortage in computer chips going to hit 3D printers? - 3DPMN

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The global shortage of computer chips is reaching crisis levels, as reported by media around the world (such as this recent article from The Guardian). 3D printers and their 3D printing printheads are not immune. In fact, they risk getting hit fairly hard in the days and months to come, effectively canceling out some of the perceived benefits of local manufacturing, in the wake of global supply chain disruptions.

The shortage in computer chips was initially caused by the same supply chain interruptions that hit all manufacturing segments, however now the issue is much more endemic: the massive global change in habits driven by pandemic, which forced people to stay home and interact and get their entertainment only via computers, has caused an unprecedented growth in electronic chip demand. A demand that no manufacturers are able to address.

A – Print Engine: The Print Engine contains major systems such as the Printhead, and Planarizer. B – Build Chamber: The Build Chamber is the area where the print platform can be found. All print jobs are built on the print platform. For more information see Printing Area. C – User Interface (UI): This is the built-in touchscreen that allows the user to interface with the printer. The touchscreen allows the user to check printing status, material levels, as well as power the printer off. D – Power Cord and Power Switch: The electrical power cord is plugged into the printer here. There is also a Power Switch located next to the power outlet. E – Material Drawer Module (MDM): The MDM drawer is a push/push type mechanism. To open the drawer push in, the drawer should pop open allowing you to pull it open the rest of the way. The MDM contains the part and support materials and the waste bag.

In this case, the idea proposed for other supply chain issues, to use AM for onshoring production, is just not applicable. In the future, it could be feasible to massively 3D print electronics, however, the best technology for electronics 3D printing available today, developed by Nano Dimension, is still far from being mature enough for mass production requirements.

This time the issue is not just at an industrial level. It is a massive global challenge that extends across multiple product categories. Apple postponed the launch of the iPhone 12 and PlayStation 5’s have been impossible to get since they launched in heavily reduced numbers during the past Christmas period. Even the largest personal computer companies are not even coming close to meeting demand.

Now the issue is starting to hit 3D printers, which of course make very intensive use of electronics: in particular for complex technologies such as material jetting. The most evident case to emerge is the global shortage of printheads for 3D Systems MJP 2500 W wax 3D printer, one of the most widely adopted for jewelry casting applications.

From New Zealand to Italy, the printheads are simply out of stock and clients are desperately looking for them. Without the printheads, their digital, local, on-demand production stops. Not exactly the ideal way to present 3D printing as a solution to global pandemic supply chain issues…

[Updating] The Link Lonk


March 29, 2021 at 09:52PM
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Is the global shortage in computer chips going to hit 3D printers? - 3DPMN

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