With “disruption” becoming an increasing feature of supply chains, whose decision-makers have to find new ways to mitigate risks from it, supply chain innovation is now a key requirement for effective, efficient and economic success.<span class=”Apple-converted-space”> </span>The use of optimization tools has long been a feature of the area of inventory management, and now new technologies are advancing those further.<span class=”Apple-converted-space”> </span>MRO spare parts management often balances the need to hold stock on shelves with the locking-in of working capital.<span class=”Apple-converted-space”> </span>However, digital manufacturing, such as the use of 3D printing, is now proving to change that paradigm, allowing companies to ensure service levels without the financial constraints of the past.<span class=”Apple-converted-space”> </span>This article looks at how 3D printing helps with MRO spare parts management, and describes the first steps to adopt it.
