Implications of Additive Manufacturing on Supply Chain Management

Abstract

Additive manufacturing is emerging as one of the manufacturing technologies, which affect the traditional supply chain management. The traditional supply chain is based on a push system, whereas an additional supply chain is based on a pull system. In this work we have found the impact of 3D printing on supply chain management, what the risks and opportunities of 3D printing on the supply chain are and, also what the companies are doing to leverages these opportunities and risks. It has been concluded that the additive supply chain has drastically changed the traditional supply chain in four key ways i.e. time, quality, speed, and environmental impact. It will result in the effective management of resources, which is of immense importance, keeping in mind the sustainable development goals of a blue-chip organization. It will be cost-effective and will reduce the lead-time of the supply chain. It will result in increased customer satisfaction, as the product will be produced by mass customization and improved quality. Moreover, this will lead to flexibility in the manufacturing process, which will enhance industrial efficiency. Therefore, we can say that this research will give us the vision of different industries in India in the coming years.