Gartner continues to predict extraordinary growth within the desktop 3D printing market. Next year they estimate that over 217,000 printers will be sold. This number will grow exponentially by more than a factor of 2 all the way into 2018. They estimate that by 2018 annual shipments will rise to over 2.3 million 3D Printers. More details on their research and further predictions can be found here: http://3dprint.com/21163/gartner-3d-printing-2018

Do you guys agree with Gartners estimates? How long will the exponential growth continue? What are some things we need to look out fr which may stifle growth? Let's hear your thoughts.