While I understand that a self-replicating printer would be far less efficient than an automated assembly line (in terms of cost and time), are you certain that they could never print a 3D printer using a 3D printer?
That seems like a bold call, considering that even with the range of different materials, many could be substituted and also broken down into smaller, printable parts and re-attached later.
It's a waste of money, but are you saying it cannot 'technically' be done? I would beg to differ. I just understand that it's a waste of money to do that.
As for hot/cold rolled sections, I doubt 3D printing is going to overtake the fabrication of large members, or even most small members (W/I sections), as they are 1. easily transportable 2. 3D printed versions would need to meet codes which is unlikely and 3. the powder cost would be far more than the foundry steel cost.
I would say the beauty of the 3D printer would be for things like steel piping sections, custom flanges, transition pieces, chutework, custom grating, kick-plate replacements, handrail pieces, nozzles, tools, customised process pieces (such as cyclone spigots/vortex finders), wear plates etc etc
There are hundreds of uses on a mine-site for a 3D printer, and the more remote the site, the more efficient the usage.
But for all those thinking they will print printers or print large member sections for construction, are probably a bit 'over-optimistic' and not thinking about the supply chain and usage.
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