3D Printing, also known as additive manufacturing, refers to the process of creating a three-dimensional object by successive layering of material through a computer-controlled robot. This technology was first introduced in the early 1980s, but has really taken off in the last decade or so, and has really found a place in the aerospace, architecture, automotive, defense, and medical industries. The latest industry to experience the benefits of 3D printing is within plumbing. Since the technology is able to create products with unparalleled detail, such fixtures are highly desired by homeowners who are looking for creative, unique fixtures to accent their home.
DXV by American Standard seems to be at the forefront of the plumbing industry’s use of this technology, recently unveiling the first collection of commercially-available residential faucets created with 3D printing. Their Vibrato Faucet under this new 3D product line even earned them a “BEST of KBIS Gold Award” in the Bath Category at the 2016 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show this month in Las Vegas. The use of such detailed technology provides the designs the ability look as if the water is appearing out of nowhere, since the trunk of the faucet is see-through.
DXV has an entire line of 3D printed fixtures. While this initial launch brings a hefty cost of $19,500, as time goes on and the technology becomes more wide-spread, pricing for 3D printed fixtures will hopefully decrease to a much more attainable price tag. For now, one can dream…