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3D Printing in Supply Chains—Benefits, Challenges, and Future Directions

In: The Palgrave Handbook of Supply Chain and Disruptive Technologies

Author

Listed:
  • Kamrul Ahsan

    (RMIT University, Department of Supply Chain and Logistics Management, College of Business and Law)

  • Shams Rahman

    (East West University)

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is widely recognised as a disruptive technology with the potential to revolutionise the management of existing supply chains (SCs). This chapter explores the benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of 3D printing and evaluates its effect on SCs, encompassing the sourcing, production, distribution, and consumption of goods. A systematic literature review of academic journal articles pertaining to 3D printing, additive manufacturing and supply chain management was conducted and 139 articles were identified with relevant content. The research indicates that 3D printing offers significant benefits to SCs, including simplified and more flexible supply chain processes, shorter lead times by bringing manufacturing closer to consumers, opportunities for mass customisation benefits, and reduced carbon footprint. The main challenges of 3D printing in SCs are the new skills required for the new technology, the high cost of printers, and adaptation challenges of new supply chain structure. By synthesising the current research, this study has identified the 3D printing research trends and developed framework to conceptualise SC challenges and impacts of 3D printing manufacturing, which will assist 3D printing manufacturers to redesign their SCs within the new manufacturing set-up. It is envisaged that the research findings will significantly support advanced manufacturing to redesign their SC structure because of the disruptive impact of 3D printing.

Suggested Citation

  • Kamrul Ahsan & Shams Rahman, 2025. "3D Printing in Supply Chains—Benefits, Challenges, and Future Directions," Springer Books, in: Nachiappan Subramanian & Yasanur Kayikci & Atanu Chaudhuri & Michael Bourlakis (ed.), The Palgrave Handbook of Supply Chain and Disruptive Technologies, chapter 0, pages 25-71, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-90210-9_2
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-90210-9_2
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