Market Trends of Additive Manufacturing In Semiconductor Industry
Metal Segment is Expected to Hold Significant Market Share
- The semiconductor sector, recognized for its accuracy and innovative capabilities, has undergone a notable transformation toward sophisticated manufacturing methods. Metal additive manufacturing (AM), called metal 3D printing, is becoming an essential instrument in the semiconductor industry. The capacity to produce intricate geometries, facilitate rapid prototyping, and enable customization has led to a significant increase in the demand for metal additive manufacturing within semiconductor production and research.
- The semiconductor industry relies heavily on swift development cycles. Metal additive manufacturing (AM) facilitates accelerated prototyping, enabling engineers to efficiently test and refine their designs. This increased speed can lead to a substantial reduction in both time-to-market and the expenses related to product development. Metal AM accommodates customized production, which is becoming increasingly vital in semiconductor applications.
- Metal additive manufacturing in the semiconductor industry facilitates the designing and creation of intricate heat sinks and cooling structures that can be customized to meet specific needs. In addition, the semiconductor manufacturing process frequently requires bespoke fixtures and tooling. The use of metal additive manufacturing enables the swift production of these components, thereby minimizing lead times and enhancing operational flexibility.
- The growing semiconductor sales across the world are expected to further support the market growth. The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) reported that global sales in the semiconductor sector reached USD 51.3 billion in July 2024. This figure reflects an 18.7% increase from the USD 43.2 billion recorded in July 2023 and a 2.7% rise compared to the June 2024 total of USD 50.0 billion.
- Several companies are focusing on adopting metal printing capabilities to improve the process. For instance, in August 2024, Markforged revealed the enhancement of its FX10 machine with the addition of metal printing capabilities. With the introduction of the FX10 Metal Kit, this industrial additive manufacturing machine can utilize metal filaments, including a newly available stainless steel option.
Asia-Pacific is Expected to Hold Significant Market Share
- The demand for additive manufacturing in the region's semiconductor industry market is increasing as governments are playing an essential role in promoting the semiconductor industry. For instance, the Indian government has established the National Center for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM), which serves as the leading authority for additive manufacturing in India. NCAM is tasked with overseeing the effective nationwide execution of the strategy and the realization of the National Strategy for Additive Manufacturing (NSAM), which is expected to contribute an additional USD 1 billion to the GDP by 2025.
- NCAM aims to monitor and advance the integration of advanced additive manufacturing technologies and their industrial applications across diverse sectors in India. In addition, NCAM is expected to prioritize the facilitation of additive design development, the qualification of metal materials, post-processing needs, and certification while also addressing existing limitations and challenges that hinder industries and end users from fully capitalizing on the advantages of this technology.
- The Chinese government is actively implementing various strategies to strengthen the resilience of its manufacturing sector. For instance, in May 2024, China established its third and most substantial state-supported semiconductor investment fund, amounting to USD 47.5 billion. This initiative reflects the nation's intensified commitment to developing its domestic chip industry, which is expected to bolster the demand for additive manufacturing within the country.
- Similarly, Japan stands as a prominent manufacturing center within the Asia-Pacific region. The country's semiconductor sector is recognized as a frontrunner in adopting advanced technologies. The Technology Research Association for Future Additive Manufacturing (TRAFAM) represents Japan's inaugural national initiative to promote the advancement of Metal Additive Manufacturing systems and technologies.
- In addition, the expansion of the region's infrastructure, the accessibility of a workforce at comparatively lower wages, and the existence of a substantial consumer base serve as incentives for international semiconductor companies to penetrate the market, thereby fostering a positive environment for the growth of the studied market within the nation.