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1:15-1:45 PM

Plastic 3D Printing vs. Injection Molding: Making the Best Choice

About the Session

The presentation aims to give attendees a comprehensive understanding of when and why to employ plastic 3D printing or injection molding, ensuring informed decision-making for efficient and innovative manufacturing solutions.


The session will highlight the practical applications, benefits, and limitations of additive manufacturing and injection molding and how these decisions guide the journey of a product's lifecycle - from initial conceptualization and design sensitivity to end-of-life repair and replacement considerations.


During the session, popular additive manufacturing technologies will be reviewed in-depth, including SLS, HP MJF, FDM, SLA, and production photopolymer technologies. Paulsen will identify the 'sweet spots' where additive manufacturing excels and situations where its limitations become apparent, including cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the session will touch upon emerging trends in advanced manufacturing, including hybrid approaches that utilize 3D printing for tooling. The presentation will conclude with a Q&A session with the audience.


Register for the 3D Printing for Plastics Processors Workshop at NPE2024: The Plastics Show

Meet the Speaker

Greg Paulsen

Greg Paulsen

Greg Paulsen leads the Applications Engineering Team at Xometry, working directly with customers on unique projects and sharing the capabilities of Xometry's digital manufacturing platform. With 15 years of experience, he has served roles within product development, business leadership, factory operations, digital marketing, and technology management. Paulsen is an expert in all things manufacturing, from 3D printing to CNC machining, injection molding, and beyond. His passion lies in helping Xometry customers design for manufacturing and get the most out of their projects.

Greg Paulsen
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