More awareness on 3D printing needed to cut across several industries

International Expo Consults (IEC) part of Falak Holding, stated that with the onset of new technology, the 3D printing industry is poised to spiral to new heights in Qatar and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. 3D (three-dimensional) printing works much like an ink-jet printer only instead of ink, a 3D printer uses additive materials and builds or prints a solid object by adding layer upon layer of material until the desired design is completed.

“The 3D printing revolution caught up in the Middle East region few years ago, is one of the most formidable components of the printing industry. 3D printing is more versatile than traditional printing techniques. This industry has evolved overtime although today there is a wealth of 3D technologies although in its nascent stage has innovated to come up with some of the finest end products,” stated Mr. Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, Chairman of International Expo Consults.

“However, it is very important for the players within the 3D printing industry to educate their target audience on the key benefits of this technology. This is a new technology and requires serious amount of education if this industry has to progress at a rapid pace. The research and development investment is high within this industry and it has to be put to the right use through proper knowledge and information transfer,” added Falaknaz.

As per reports, Qatar University scientists are in the process of testing 3D-printed models of the football stadiums for the 2022 World Cup in order to understand if they are capable enough to sustain the climatic conditions of the region. The region experiences sand and dust storms in winter months but the designers are incorporating air conditioning to encapsulate the stadiums from the climate. The stadiums are being built not only for this global event but also in order to be used round the year beyond 2022.

The world’s first fully functional 3D office building in Dubai, billed as ‘Office of the Future’, is a great case study for the world. UAE is set to lead the 3D printing marketplace in the Middle East due to the growth in the country’s large commercial establishments, medical sector and also investments in infrastructure development. 3D printing technologies have many sectors that it can tap into especially construction, healthcare and consumer products among others.

“Several mega projects in the GCC region are in various phases of construction, ahead of global mega events, particularly the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar and the World Expo 2020 in the UAE. Despite the oil prices and challenging market conditions, the Middle East market is upbeat when it comes to 3D printing technology. This sector is expected to remain buoyant as both private and public sector increases investments into this technology,” added Mr. Sharif Rahman, CEO, International Expo Consults.

Several brands showcased their printing machines and 3D printing technologies at the SGI Dubai show. The SGI Dubai 2017 show is one of the most anticipated events of the year in the MENA region with the successful history of creating a great platform for exhibitors and visitors in the signage, digital signage, retail signage solutions, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industries. The 20^th edition of the show will be held during 15^th– 17^thJanuary in Halls 3 to 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The event showcased innovative printers and digital signage panels worth over AED220 million in the 2016 edition of the show as exhibitors at the show signed record contracts worth millions of dollars during these 3 days.