Over the past 10 years, additive manufacturing has evolved into a relevant production technology with industrial potential, including applications in series production. As an additional manufacturing technology alongside established conventional methods, additive manufacturing provides innovative solutions across various industrial sectors, from aerospace, medical, and automotive industries to jewelry making and classical mechanical engineering, with diverse and wide-ranging applications. However, Swiss companies in this emerging industry face challenges that need to be addressed. Swissmem, through its industrial sector Swiss Additive Manufacturing Group (SAMG), supports these companies in overcoming these challenges successfully.
Stefan Brupbacher, Director of Swissmem, on the role of additive manufacturing in Switzerland and the role of Swissmem; Image: Swissmem
The Current Situation of Additive Manufacturing in Switzerland:
The initial hype and high growth expectations have now consolidated into a realistic and demand-driven framework. Many Swiss companies have recognized the potentials early on and have increased investments in additive manufacturing. This enables them to enhance their competitiveness and introduce innovative products to the market, but they also encounter the following challenges:
Skilled Labor Shortage and Know-how: Additive manufacturing requires highly qualified professionals with specialized knowledge and expertise. This know-how extends beyond conventional manufacturing and includes aspects of design, manufacturing methods, and post-processing. The shortage of qualified personnel in this field presents a hurdle for Swiss companies.
Technological Development: Additive manufacturing is a rapidly evolving technology. Swiss companies must stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends to remain competitive. While established methods like SLM and SLS exist, their continuous improvement entails investment risks.
Standardization and Certification: Additive manufacturing is not yet fully standardized in many industrial sectors, including safety-related applications. Uniform standards and certifications are essential to build trust in the technology and enable its use in safety-critical areas.
Costs and Profitability: Initial investments in additive manufacturing equipment can be high. Evaluating the profitability of such investments and planning for the long term are crucial considerations.
Market and Order Volume: Currently, additive manufacturing is primarily used for prototyping, small-scale production, and limited series production. While some examples demonstrate its potential for serial production and applications not feasible with conventional methods, the acquisition effort often exceeds the actual order volume for companies.
The Role of Swissmem and SAMG:
Swissmem is the association representing the Swiss machinery, electrical, and metal industries, comprising around 1,350 member companies. Given the growing importance of additive manufacturing, Swissmem established the Swiss Additive Manufacturing Group (SAMG) in 2015 to represent and support companies in this field, addressing the challenges mentioned above through the following services:
Networking at Home and Abroad: Swissmem and SAMG provide an extensive network of companies, research institutes, and experts both in Switzerland and internationally, facilitating the exchange of experiences and knowledge. The network includes not only small and large companies but also regulatory and standardization bodies.
Statistics and Market Data: By providing statistical data and market information, Swissmem and SAMG offer companies an overview of the current market situation and developments in additive manufacturing. This enables strategic decisions and supports investment choices.
Trade Fair Activities and Delegation Trips: Participation in trade fairs and delegation trips allows companies to access new technologies, markets, and potential business partners, providing vital insights into current developments and opportunities.
Technical Working Groups and Exchange: Technical working groups and regular exchange opportunities allow companies to collaborate on technical challenges and develop innovative solutions, offering valuable insights into industrial challenges.
Training and Further Education Activities: Swissmem and SAMG offer training and further education activities to address the shortage of skilled personnel and familiarize companies, employees, and customers with the latest developments in additive manufacturing.
Technology Overview and Technology Transfer Support: Swissmem and SAMG provide an overview of the current state of additive manufacturing technology and support companies in technology transfer and integration into their processes. This includes assistance from the comprehensive network with the Innovation Booster AM (IBAM) to ensure that technologies reach market maturity.
Additive manufacturing has the potential to become another established manufacturing process in the tech industry, leading to innovative solutions. However, companies face challenges that need to be addressed. Swissmem and the Swiss Additive Manufacturing Group (SAMG) support companies by offering a comprehensive service portfolio that promotes technological progress, facilitates knowledge transfer, and strengthens competitiveness. Through this collaboration, Swiss companies can enhance their position in international competition and fully leverage the opportunities presented by additive manufacturing.
