Key players during these years included companies such as SandersPrototype (later renamed Solidscape) and ZCorporation, founded in 1996, Arcam established in 1997, Object Geometries in 1998. In 2000, MCP Technologies introduced the SLM (Selective Laser Melting) technology, EnvisionTec was founded in 2002, ExOne spun off from Extrude Hone Corporation in 2005, and Sciaky Inc. introduced an innovative additive process based on patented electron beam welding technology.

These companies joined the ranks of leading Western players in the global 3D printing market. Meanwhile, there was the formation and development of a common terminology — Additive Manufacturing (AM), encompassing all technologies in this field. Despite the rapid development of technologies in the West, concurrent multiple developments in Asia did not significantly impact the global market.

By the mid-2000s, diversification processes began in two main directions, now much more clearly defined. On one hand, high-end 3D systems were developed — expensive equipment for producing complex high-tech parts, whose use in the aerospace, automotive, medical, and jewelry industries is becoming increasingly evident due to years of research and development. On the other hand, some manufacturers began focusing on developing and promoting 3D printers for modeling, intended for functional prototyping and DIY. These devices, created as convenient and economical office systems, heralded the emergence of modern desktop 3D printers, although most of them were still designed for industrial purposes.

Looking back, it’s clear that this period was a relative calm before the impending technological storm in the field of 3D printing.