Changjiang Securities·2026-01-14 00:49Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" investment rating for the 3D printing industry, particularly in its application within the commercial aerospace sector [3]. Core Insights - The report emphasizes that 3D printing technology is a cost-reduction tool that accelerates the industrialization of commercial aerospace, driven by high demand for advanced applications [5][48]. - The growth of the 3D printing market is significantly influenced by the increasing demand for high-end applications, which is expected to lead to continuous market expansion [22][39]. Summary by Sections Section 1: Disruption of Traditional Industrial Systems - Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, revolutionizes traditional manufacturing by allowing for the "free manufacturing" of parts without the need for traditional tools and multiple processing steps, thus reducing processing time and increasing material utilization [9][19]. - Various types of additive manufacturing processes, such as Powder Bed Fusion and Directed Energy Deposition, are highlighted for their efficiency and precision [14][18]. Section 2: High-End Application Demand - The global market for metal additive manufacturing equipment has seen significant growth, with sales increasing from 202 units in 2012 to 3,793 units in 2023, reflecting a CAGR of 25.15% [27]. - The average price of industrial-grade additive manufacturing equipment has risen from $98,100 in 2019 to $316,900 in 2024, indicating a trend towards larger and more expensive systems [28][29]. - The aerospace and defense sectors are identified as key growth areas for 3D printing, with the market expected to reach approximately $3.379 billion in 2024 and grow to $10.48 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 17.8% [45]. Section 3: 3D Printing as a Cost-Reduction Tool - The report notes that the high costs associated with rocket launches drive the urgent need for cost reduction through 3D printing, which can significantly lower manufacturing costs and weight of components [51][55]. - 3D printing allows for the integration of complex structures, reducing the need for traditional assembly methods, thus enhancing design flexibility and reducing manufacturing time [55][63]. - The application of 3D printing in rocket engines is highlighted, with examples from SpaceX demonstrating substantial cost and weight reductions in engine components [59][72].