Tweddle Supply Chain Management

Within the past year, 3D printing technology has continued to evolve and catch the interest of some major players as it becomes more versatile and cost-effective. Cost decline will have the biggest impact on how the industry changes, according to a Sculpteo report on the state of 3D printing.

Small, complex parts are the easiest, most effective models for 3D printing, while larger parts will continue to be produced traditionally.

Obviously, the new technology would provide a fast and simple way to make tooling, fixtures, and prototype components, and to model a new part before production-but Ford says its exploring the technology for actual production parts, as well, noting "the ability to produce lighter-weight parts that could lead to greater fuel efficiency" and pointing out that a component like a spoiler "may weight less than half its cast metal counterpart."

Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Commissioner Rebecca Dye said earlier this week that the initial phase of the investigation into port demurrage, detention, and free time practices has commenced, with the FMC ordering ocean common carriers to provide information and documents to explain these practices, adding that this is also happening United States ports container terminals.