At the recently completed Light Green Machine Institute Conference, I said this coming year would be one where we spend time exploring Additive Manufacturing, otherwise known as 3-D printing. 

When the big box home improvement stores are selling 3-D printers (that print with plastic) for USD 999, it is time we got on board.  When other industries have been using 3-D printing, using metal for over half a decade, it is time we got on board.

This week, we are just spending time getting you used to the topic. We will be exploring it much more as time goes on.  So, we'll simply leave you with a question this week, one we would much appreciate you answering:  "Where do you think we can use 3-D printing in the pulp and paper industry?"  Please send us your thoughts.