A Manufacturing Revolution for Dow Industrials

The following video is part of our "Motley Fool Conversations" series, in which industrials editor/analyst Isaac Pino and research analyst Cat Baab-Muguira discuss topics across the investing world.

A manufacturing renaissance is taking place in America, and three-dimensional printing techniques are transforming factories and blue-collar positions. With 3-D printing, or "additive manufacturing," Dow industrial companies like GE, Boeing, and United Technologies can develop prototypes quicker and easier. Engineers now have more flexibility to design a key component in an aircraft engine, for example, print the prototype, and test its usability on the spot. Health-care giants like Johnson & Johnson can utilize 3-D printers to develop tailor-made hip replacements for individuals.

While the Dow has been around since 1896, it's unlikely that the Dow components have seen a revolution like this since the invention of the assembly line. Right now, the Dow contains only about seven true industrial or energy-related companies, but Isaac believes this new technology could touch all types of companies when all is said and done.

For years skeptics have lamented the death of American manufacturing, but technological and economic forces are changing the landscape. Uncover the companies driving the "Third Industrial Revolution" in our special free report, "The Future Is Made in America." Some of the savviest technology executives have recognized the incredible potential in this field. To learn more, download our free report for a limited time.

At the time thisarticle was published Cat Baab-Muguira has no positions in the stocks mentioned above.Isaac Pinoowns shares of General Electric. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson.Motley Fool newsletter services recommendJohnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter servicesfree for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe thatconsidering a diverse range of insightsmakes us better investors. The Motley Fool has adisclosure policy.

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