Emergency production of healthcare materials - Comparison of AM and conventional options

Other conference contribution, 2024

Abstract:
Purpose: Additive manufacturing (AM) may change how production is performed and localized. This study compares start-up of two types of emergency production, conventional injection moulding (IM) and powder-based AM. The study aims to examine the lead time from a shortage occurs until new production can deliver plastic products to hospitals. In addition, production capacity, cost and lead time aspects are considered.
Design/methodology/approach: Observations, interviews, and practical trials were used in a case study comparing two scenarios, conventional IM and AM.
Findings: Findings point at advantages with conventional, IM, although decentralized AM has some supply advantages. Hinders for decentralized AM regards raw material supply and ensuring manufacturing competence.
Research limitations/implications: The research presented is limited to one case study for health care products, further studies on decentralised AM and cases in other sectors are planned.
Practical implications: The practical implications are mainly in how to evaluate new opportunities for emergency production and the lead time from the time point an emergency occurs until start of production.
Social implications: In case of crisis when centralized global supply chains may be disturbed, decentralized AM may become a more resilient alternative. The system development for this to be a viable option needs further research.
Original/value: The study may be of value for supply chain design within health care and for academics interested in emergency production and AM.