Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing

The construction and government contracting industries have embraced 3D printing technology for decades. From contract formation and counseling, to claims and liability evaluations, our firm delivers knowledge and expertise to assist companies with all 3D printing legal issues.

In its many different processes, 3D printing and additive manufacturing allow manufacturers to produce complex products and designs more efficiently, with less waste and cost, and often with higher quality and durability. Construction companies are pioneering 3D printed processes and concrete mixtures to print multilevel freestanding vertical structures, harness complex interfaces, and test structural integrity. Moreover, research involving the delivery of concrete from 3D printing robotic arms and gantry systems will undoubtedly result in labor implications to the supply chain.

Government contractors and federal agencies are predominantly using such technology to improve accessibility and quality of technologically sophisticated machine parts. Notably, contractors have recently created fully functional aerospace parts that are more durable, lighter, and require less time to complete compared to traditionally manufactured counterparts.

As 3D printing evolves, new legal questions arise, such as how 3D printing affects building code regulations and permitting, product liability, labor and employment regulations, government contracts cost and pricing, cybersecurity, aviation parts certification regulations, counterfeit parts and intellectual property, and ITAR requirements. Our firm combines a deep bench of proven know-how in both government contracts and construction law to guide clients through the challenges, issues, and legalities associated with 3D printing.