German chemical group ALTANA has ramped up production of its Cubic Ink UV-curing resins for industrial additive manufacturing, marking a major step toward localized manufacturing and distribution in the United States. By producing domestically, ALTANA also aims to enhance supply chain reliability and reduce delivery lead times for its U.S.-based customers. The first large-scale batch of a UV-curable 3D printing resin from Cubic Ink was produced in collaboration with ALTANA’s ACTEGA division at its Cinnaminson facility and is now headed to a medical technology customer in the U.S. West Coast. “Our customer proximity was crucial to the successful implementation of the project. We are on site and understand the challenges of our customers. This enables us to grow together and quickly develop individual product solutions. This is especially true for innovative technologies such as 3D printing,” said Dr. Max Röttger, Head of Cubic Ink. The move reinforces ALTANA’s commitment to scaling industrial-grade additive manufacturing, backed by robust production capacity, advanced technologies, and rigorous quality assurance.  ALTANA Cubic Ink Scaling Up Production. Photo via ALTANA . High-Performance Materials for Open 3D Printing Platforms The Cubic Ink resin portfolio is engineered for compatibility with a wide range of open 3D printing systems, including DLP, LCD, and SLA technologies. Optimized for end-use applications, these resins offer properties such as chemical resistance, durability, and aging stability. Their low viscosity supports real-time, cost-efficient processing, while customizable formulations can be fine-tuned for specific machines and operational requirements. Cubic Ink also offers specialized inks for material jetting. This broader materials strategy supports a wider array of applications across industries with stringent performance demands—including automotive, aerospace, and healthcare fields such as audiology, dentistry, and orthopedics. ALTANA Cubic Ink – Materials for Additive Manufacturing. Photo via ALTANA. Track Record of Innovation and Industry Collaboration ALTANA’s current scale-up effort builds on a series of strategic partnerships and product expansions. In 2024, ALTANA’s Cubic Ink division teamed up with 3D printing firm Quantica to develop advanced materials for 2D and 3D inkjet printing. The collaboration introduced starter resins for Quantica’s NovoJet OPEN system and focused on high-viscosity formulations to extend application possibilities. In 2023, ALTANA expanded its Cubic Ink portfolio to include new materials for DLP, LCD, SLA, and jetting systems, targeting end-use components in high-demand sectors. Highlights from the 2023 portfolio included Cubic Ink High Performance 2-1400 VP for SLA, along with other specialized materials like Mold 210 VP, 601 VP, and ESD-safe High Performance 4-2800 VP-ESD. These products were showcased at Formnext 2023 in Frankfurt, signaling ALTANA’s commitment to open-system, industrial-scale AM solutions. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows ALTANA Cubic Ink Scaling Up Production. Photo via ALTANA.

High-speed SLA printer manufacturer Axtra3D announced a new silicone material and reseller partnership at Rapid + TCT 2025, alongside strong Q1 2025 performance. At the Detroit tradeshow, the manufacturer announced general availability of Spectroplast’s TrueSilX50, a new 100% pure silicone formulation developed exclusively for the company’s Lumia X1 3D printer.  Tailored for industrial and healthcare use, the material marks a notable development in silicone 3D printing, as the first pure silicone processed through photopolymerization rather than extrusion. It expands the manufacturer’s Axtra Solutions portfolio and aligns with its broader aim to present Hi-Speed SLA as a practical option alongside conventional AM methods. Combining laser and Digital Light Processing (DLP) systems, the Lumia X1 is central to this approach. Its hybrid scanning setup allows for faster throughput, reportedly up to ten to twenty times quicker than standard SLA systems, while maintaining resolution and part fidelity. For industries where both speed and precision are critical, this combination of capabilities is attracting growing interest. Freshly printed silicone parts using Axtra3D’s Lumia X1 printer with TrueSilX50 material. Photo via Axtra3D. Durable, biocompatible silicone material The new TrueSilX50 silicone material is designed to match the mechanical performance of molded silicone, offering a Shore A hardness of 48, elongation at break of 330%, and a tear strength of 22N/m.  Potential applications include medical devices, wearables, gaskets, enclosures, and household components. Biocompatibility testing is currently underway, and the company expects the material to pass key evaluations for cytotoxicity, skin irritation, and sensitization, based on the track record of previous Spectroplast formulations. Surface finish is another area of focus, for the manufacturer. TrueSilX50 aims to address the layering artifacts often seen with extruded silicone by offering a smooth, isotropic finish that preserves detail in complex geometries. According to the company, the printing workflow has been optimized for consistency and repeatability, with minimal post-processing required and no reduction in material performance. “Since our inception, Axtra3D has focused on delivering advanced, reliable manufacturing solutions,” said Rajeev Kulkarni, CSO of Axtra3D. He continues, “With our proven success in mold production, expanding into true silicone AM is the next significant step.” He further explained that this silicone formulation and its Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) process ensure that parts retain the mechanical and chemical properties ideal for medical devices, wearable technology, and industrial components and seals. The biocompatibility, durability, and precision significantly increase its breadth of applications.A strong financial quarter Axtra3D has also reported one of its strongest quarters to date, with growth in both unit placements and revenue. The company attributes this performance to a combination of its customer-friendly business models, Hi-Speed SLA technology, and novel materials range.  The simultaneous laser and DLP scanning architecture in the Lumia X1 allows users to bypass compromises commonly associated with SLA, DLP, and liquid crystal display (LCD) systems, particularly in balancing throughput, resolution, and build size. As a result, customers are able to produce detailed parts more efficiently and at greater scale. In application, the company explained that its technology has enabled faster development cycles, such as moving from design to injection mold within a single shift using ceramic molds. For silicone 3D printing, TrueSilX50 is intended to provide the mechanical and chemical properties needed for durable, production-grade parts across sectors including medical, consumer, and industrial products. As per Axtra3D, service bureaus and manufacturers using the system have reported shorter lead times, lower costs, improved output quality, and greater operational efficiency, with some also seeing new revenue opportunities. Highlighting the announcement, Frank Herzog, Founder of Concept Laser and an investor through HZG Group, called Axtra3D’s Q1 performance a sign of steady growth and market fit, crediting its technical focus, customer-first approach, and experienced team. He added that it remains one of HZG’s most rewarding investments. Axtra3D’s Lumia X1 3D printer. Photo via Axtra3D. Widening HPS and Lumia X1 adoption with a reseller deal As part of this global expansion, Axtra3D has announced a new reseller partnership with Additive Plus, a California-based industrial 3D printing solutions provider. This partnership is expected to strengthen the availability of the Lumia X1 and its underlying HPS technology, making it easier for businesses to adopt high-performance photopolymerization systems. Additive Plus brings experience in integrating advanced 3D printing workflows for sectors such as aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and education. By joining Axtra3D’s reseller network, the company will offer technical support and implementation expertise to customers seeking high-speed and high-precision solutions.  “We are excited to join forces with Axtra3D and bring their innovative Hi-Speed SLA technology to our customers,” said Ashkhen Ovsepyan, CEO of Additive Plus. She further described the Lumia X1 as a step change in photopolymerization 3D printing and expressed confidence in delivering its precision, speed, and surface quality benefits to customers. The partnership also marks another step in Axtra3D’s efforts to build a global channel strategy that ensures broader access to its Hi-Speed SLA technology. According to both companies, the goal is to support businesses looking to scale their production while maintaining accuracy and material performance. What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025? How is the future of 3D printing shaping up? To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook. While you’re here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays. Featured image shows freshly printed silicone parts using Axtra3D’s Lumia X1 printer with TrueSilX50 material. Photo via Axtra3D. Ada Shaikhnag With a background in journalism, Ada has a keen interest in frontier technology and its application in the wider world. Ada reports on aspects of 3D printing ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and dental.

Stratasys Ltd (NASDAQ: SSYS), the global provider of polymer 3D printers, has launched the Neo®800+, a new stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer engineered for large-format, high-accuracy applications across automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors. Announced at the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) conference on March 31, 2025, and later showcased at Rapid + TCT 2025, the Neo800+ is the latest addition to Stratasys’ growing SLA ecosystem. The new system builds on the Neo800 platform, delivering up to 50% faster print speeds thanks to the integration of Stratasys’ proprietary ScanControl+™ technology. Designed for demanding use cases like wind tunnel testing, tooling, and prototyping, the printer offers improved time-to-part, reduced post-processing, and enhanced reliability. “Engineered with precision and performance in mind, the Neo800+ is designed to meet the growing demands of industries like automotive and aerospace,” said Rich Garrity, Chief Business Unit Officer at Stratasys. “Whether you’re designing prototypes or manufacturing end-use parts, the Neo800+ delivers exceptional throughput and reliability.” The Neo800+ printer. Photo via Stratasys. Performance and reliability upgrades In addition to faster print speeds, the Neo800+ features several enhancements aimed at improving uptime and print success. These include Vacuum System Protection, Z-Stage Collision Detection, and real-time environmental monitoring. Together, these upgrades contribute to higher part yield, reduced machine downtime, and a lower cost per part. The upgraded laser and optics system is optimized for high-energy materials, enabling the printer to deliver exceptional accuracy across a wide range of geometries. This also reduces the need for post-processing, making the printer more cost-effective for high-throughput workflows. Stratasys Direct Manufacturing, one of the early adopters of the Neo800+, reported significant improvements in turnaround time and part quality. “The improved speed has allowed us to increase throughput and maintain open capacity as well as offer quicker turnaround times to our customers,” said Sean Schoonmaker, Director of Operations. “The quality and consistency of the prints have been outstanding, with an excellent surface finish that helps save on post-processing time for cosmetic models.” Materials and ecosystem The Neo800+ is optimized for use with ScanControl+ Ready Materials from Somos®, including the newly released WaterShed® XC+. This resin is based on the widely used WaterShed XC 11122, offering similar optical clarity and smooth surface finish, while enabling much faster scan speeds. This makes it particularly well-suited for complex transparent parts in automotive lighting, fluid flow testing, and consumer electronics. Stratasys supports the Neo800+ with a full SLA workflow ecosystem that includes the cloud-connected GrabCAD Print Build Preparation Software and post-processing solutions designed to streamline operations. These tools aim to simplify setup, reduce operator intervention, and ensure repeatability at scale. Stratasys’ expansion into high-throughput SLA with the Neo800+ signals a continued commitment to meeting industrial demands across prototyping and low-volume production. The company’s broader strategy includes multi-technology offerings across FDM, SAF, P3, and now high-speed SLA, each tailored for specific industry needs. A set of Stratasys Neo 800-3D printed aero parts. Photo via Stratasys. Evolution of industrial SLA 3D printing Across the 3D printing industry, SLA technology is being reimagined through innovations in hardware and materials. At TCT Asia 2025, UnionTech showcased industrial SLA platforms with enhanced optics and throughput, reinforcing the relevance of SLA in tooling and end-use production. Among the various applications showcased, tire mold printing stood out as the most precision-intensive. Atum3D, meanwhile, is pushing boundaries with hybrid DLP-SLA technology licensed from the University of Amsterdam, creating a hybrid SLA process that combines photo and stereolithography to enable the production of parts with high-resolution features at scale. Sprybuild has introduced a novel conveyor belt SLA system aimed at enabling continuous, automated part production, which highlights the possibility of high-volume production across various sectors such as automotive, consumer goods, aerospace, and healthcare. On the materials front, researchers from Carleton University and the University of Northern British Columbia are now integrating quantum dots into SLA resins, significantly improving part strength and thermal resistance​. These advancements highlight a growing industry consensus: SLA is no longer limited to smooth surface prototypes, it’s becoming a serious tool for industrial manufacturing.Who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows NEO800 3D printing systems. Image via Stratasys.

Spanish 3D technology provider Sicnova has officially launched the Center for Special Applications and Process Certification for the Military and Defense Sectors (CEDAEC), the first facility of its kind in Spain, dedicated exclusively to advanced manufacturing and the certification of components for the defense sector. The inauguration took place on April 4th at Novaindef’s facilities, renowned for their expertise in producing and securing critical defense components. The event was attended by María Amparo Valcarce García, Secretary of State for Defense, who formally opened the center. Lieutenant General Miguel Ivorra praised the collaboration, stating, “I have faith in the vision and capabilities of this emerging technology. This project will revolutionize advanced manufacturing and strengthen the strategic autonomy essential for our defense.” María Amparo Valcarce García, Secretary of State for Defense, at the opening ceremony of the Center for Special Applications and Process Certification for the Military and Defense Sectors. Photo: Sicnova CEDAEC: Advancing Logistics and Defense Manufacturing The launch of CEDAEC is a key element of a defense partnership between Sicnova Solutions and the Ministry of Defense, managed by Sicnova’s subsidiary, Novaindef. This collaboration aims to implement a comprehensive digitalization strategy that will streamline the production of parts and spare parts, optimizing supply chains and logistics for the Armed Forces. Its primary objectives include improving the operational efficiency of fleets and resources, addressing obsolescence issues, and enhancing performance through cutting-edge design and additive manufacturing technologies.The center is equipped with an array of advanced capabilities, including 3D printing in metal and polymers, next-generation machining centers, reverse engineering systems, post-processing techniques, and high-precision testing equipment. Among its key assets is one of Europe’s most advanced tomographs, designed to inspect and certify military components, ensuring the highest standards of quality and durability for defense-related parts and spare parts. “The integration of advanced technologies such as 3D printing and component certification demonstrates that by working together, we can overcome traditional manufacturing methods and address the strategic challenges of complex environments,” said Ángel Llavero, CEO of Sicnova. Opening ceremony of the Center for Special Applications and Process Certification for the Military and Defense Sectors. Photo: Sicnova Enhancing Defense Capabilities through Additive Manufacturing Spain is not alone in its commitment to strengthening defense capabilities through additive manufacturing (AM). Other countries have begun investing in AM technologies and forging partnerships to enhance their defense sectors and supply chains.This month, in South Korea, the Republic of Korea Army has officially adopted and deployed Meltio’s wire-laser technology. In partnership with AM Solutions, the Korean Marine Corps Logistics Group now uses a mobile 3D metal printer to manufacture discontinued and hard-to-source components on demand. The unit has become the first military group in the country to employ a mobile robotic metal 3D printer. This system is being used to support amphibious assault vehicles (KAAVs), reducing downtime and dependence on external supply chains. In the United States, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced the opening of the state’s fourth Innovation Hub in Youngstown. The hub, backed by $26 million from the Ohio Innovation Hubs Program and an additional $36 million from federal, local, and private sources, will expand research and workforce development in additive manufacturing for the defense and aerospace industries. Elsewhere, America Makes, the national accelerator for additive manufacturing in the U.S., operated by the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM), has launched a new open project called the Allied Additive Manufacturing Interoperability (AAMI) Program. This initiative, supported by $1.1 million from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering’s Manufacturing Technology Office (OSD(R&E)), aims to improve AM equivalency and interoperability between the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and the UK Ministry of Defense (MoD). Specifically, the project will focus on laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) technology for producing critical parts, identifying barriers to interoperability, and contributing to the development of international qualification standards. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows María Amparo Valcarce García, Secretary of State for Defense, at the opening ceremony of the Center for Special Applications and Process Certification for the Military and Defense Sectors. Photo: Sicnova

Microlight3D, a manufacturer of high-resolution 2D and 3D printing solutions, and Eden Tech, a leader in microfluidic technologies, have announced a new partnership aimed at delivering advanced, high-precision microfluidic design tools to researchers and developers across the healthcare, diagnostics, and research sectors. The collaboration integrates Microlight3D’s Smart Print UV, a maskless lithography tool offering micron-level precision, with Eden Tech’s FLUI’DEVICE design platform. Together, these technologies reduce design cycles by up to 90% compared to traditional CAD workflows. The partnership also aims to improve the accessibility, customization, and scalability of microfluidic devices. “Microlight3D is excited to partner with Eden Tech, a recognized leader in microfluidics, to bring groundbreaking innovations to the healthcare and research sectors,” said Denis Barbier, CEO of Microlight3D. “We are now able to offer customers worldwide a solution for quickly and easily creating high-precision microfluidic designs compatible with the formats used by our machines. This will enable our users to integrate this tool into their current workflow, while streamlining the steps involved.” Microlight3D’s Smart Print UV. Photo via: Microlight3D Accelerating Microfluidic Design Key benefits include a 90% reduction in design time compared to traditional CAD tools. The software allows users to transition from concept to production-ready design in hours, rather than days. Its intuitive interface also minimizes the need for extensive training or external design services, leading to cost savings of 60%.  The platform supports faster iterations than traditional CAD software, resulting in higher precision in both design and simulation.It also offers compatibility with various export formats, ensuring smooth integration with production systems and minimizing errors during the manufacturing phase. Additionally, the solution is versatile, catering to both academic and industrial users, allowing projects to scale seamlessly from research to full production. The platform provides access to a comprehensive library of modules, enabling the creation of more sophisticated and customized designs. “We believe that this partnership will set a new benchmark in the field of microfluidics,” said Victor Morel Cahoreau, head of sales at Eden Tech. “With healthcare systems and research laboratories increasingly seeking efficient and reliable microfluidic devices, the demand for solutions that integrate precision, scalability and cost-effectiveness has never been greater. This partnership directly addresses these needs by offering solutions that streamline production processes and reduce time-to-market for critical healthcare technologies. Microlight3D booth. Photo: Microlight3D 3D Printing Microfluidic DevicesQueensland University of Technology evaluated resin 3D printing for the production of microfluidic components for cell-based applications. The study used MOIIN High Temp and MOIIN Tech Clear resins from DMG Digital Enterprises, along with ASIGA UV Max X27 DLP 3D printers, to fabricate common microfluidic designs, including 2D monolayer culture devices, pillar arrays, and constricting channels for droplet generators. The study concluded that MOIIN High Temp and MOIIN Tech Clear resins are effective at 3D printing microfluidic channels for cell-based applications. Both materials were confirmed to be biocompatible and visible through imaging platforms such as microscopes. Elsewhere, researchers from Stanford University developed a new high-resolution resin 3D printing process. This approach eliminates the risk of over-curing resin in negative spaces, such as channels or voids, making it particularly well-suited for 3D printing microfluidic devices. The paper was co-authored by Joseph M. DeSimone, Co-founder and former CEO of California-based 3D printer manufacturer Carbon. Now serving as a board member at the company, DeSimone played a key role in the development of Carbon’s patented Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) technology. The Stanford team utilized a modified version of CLIP, known as Injection CLIP (iCLIP), in their research. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows Microlight3D booth. Photo: Microlight3D Paloma Duran Paloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future.

Chicago-based 3D printing quality assurance software developer Phase3D has introduced a new inspection system designed to improve quality assurance (QA) in cold spray additive manufacturing (CSAM).  Supported by $1.25 million in funding from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the system, called Fringe Inspection: Cold Spray, uses structured light to capture surface data in real time during the spray process. It was tested at the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) and later validated in an operational environment at Ellsworth Air Force Base. CSAM has long presented challenges in maintaining consistent quality due to the nature of the material deposition process. Phase3D’s system addresses these challenges by providing real-time data that allow for immediate identification of surface-level defects such as cracking, cratering, and pitting.  The system also evaluates the flatness and overall shape of the deposited surface, offering technicians the opportunity to adjust process parameters dynamically, thereby reducing material waste and improving efficiency. “The successful completion of this project underscores the importance of real-time inspection in additive manufacturing, ”said Niall O’Dowd, Founder and CEO of Phase3D. “The deployment at Ellsworth AFB proves that structured light inspection is a game-changer for cold spray applications. This technology not only ensures higher-quality repairs but also delivers significant cost and time savings for the Air Force.” Fringe Inspection : Cold Spray attaches to the robotic control arm and scans cold spray deposits during the printing process. Photo via Phase3D. Validated through real-world testing The Fringe Inspection : Cold Spray hardware is mounted to a robotic arm, where it collects millions of measurement points related to layer thickness, roughness, and shape. Phase3D developed and deployed both the hardware and its accompanying software suite, Fringe Operator, which is used to interpret inspection data and document part-specific quality metrics.  Working with Air Force engineers, the team established data-driven benchmarks for acceptable and unacceptable deposition quality, drawing on cold spray samples created with helium and nitrogen as carrier gases. These examples informed the creation of a go/no-go threshold system to evaluate parts during the manufacturing process. To validate this approach, Phase3D conducted a blind test using the quality thresholds it had developed. Components were evaluated using real-time data collected during the build process, and defects such as uneven spray patterns and surface discontinuities were identified and categorized.  The successful classification of test specimens further confirmed the utility of the system for in-situ inspection in cold spray environments. This project was conducted under the STTR Phase II Proposal F2-16465 – In-Situ Monitoring for Blown Powder Additive Manufacturing contract. A separate case study involving a laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) component 3D printed on an EOS M270 machine further demonstrated the practical benefits of Fringe Inspection technology.  An undisclosed aerospace manufacturer faced part failures caused by inconsistent porosity and internal geometries, traced to powder buildup on the recoater blade that intermittently dropped onto the build surface, an issue technicians suspected but couldn’t confirm using standard imaging tools. After installing Fringe Inspection on the machine, the issue became immediately visible through high-resolution heightmaps. The system detected powder drops of up to 200 µm, four times the normal layer thickness, falling onto the melt pool.  The discovery led to a simple fix: adding a fixed blade at the recoater’s home position to prevent powder buildup. After implementation, powder-related build failures stopped entirely, reducing annual losses of $63,000 by over 90%, not including indirect engineering and troubleshooting costs. Following these successful implementations, Phase3D plans to expand the application of its structured light inspection systems beyond cold spray. The company is currently engaging with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and private-sector partners to explore additional use cases and support broader adoption of real-time quality monitoring in additive manufacturing. The case study is based on reported findings and represents a real set of events. No confidential figures were used, and all data has been recreated to protect customer privacy. Quality Chart output from Fringe Inspection identifying when the process is out of control during the process. Visualized in Fringe Qualification. Image via Phase3D. Quality assurance in 3D printing In-situ quality assurance is essential for industries like aerospace and space, where standards are high, prompting many AM companies to develop their own novel solutions. For example, Siemens Energy and risk management firm DNV partnered to develop a new industrial quality assurance platform by integrating Siemens’ AM Cockpit with DNV’s Independent Quality Monitor (IQM). The platform enables real-time monitoring, digital validation, and comparison of 3D printed parts against approved models.  It provides automated certification and aims to support zero-defect manufacturing, particularly in powder bed fusion processes. Developed under the EU-funded InterQ project, the combined system is designed to strengthen confidence in AM for critical sectors like energy, with Siemens highlighting its role in enabling gas turbines to operate on low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen. During the Formnext 2022, MakerVerse and ZEISS introduced enhanced quality assurance tools on the MakerVerse platform through the integration of ZEISS’s specialized metrology solutions. These additions included Tactile CMM, Optical 3D Scanning, Industrial CT and X-Ray capabilities, along with surface roughness measurement. MakerVerse CEO Dr. Markus Seibold emphasized that this alliance “is the perfect solution for our customers needing industrial-grade quality inspections and reports for their AM parts.” What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025? How is the future of 3D printing shaping up? To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook. While you’re here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays. Featured image shows Fringe Inspection : Cold Spray attaches to the robotic control arm and scans cold spray deposits during the printing process. Photo via Phase3D. Ada Shaikhnag With a background in journalism, Ada has a keen interest in frontier technology and its application in the wider world. Ada reports on aspects of 3D printing ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and dental.

Stratasys, the renowned Israeli manufacturer specializing in polymer additive manufacturing, introduced new hardware and materials during RAPID + TCT 2025, held April 8–10 in Detroit, Michigan. The company unveiled the Neo800+, a stereolithography 3D printer designed for high-speed precision, and PolyJet ToughONE, a photopolymer intended for functional testing and production-grade performance. Live demonstrations of the Neo800+ highlighted the printer’s capabilities for large-format builds. ToughONE was featured in dedicated strength tests, including drill and pull testing, and a working air hockey table built with 3D printed components. These exhibits aimed to demonstrate the potential of additive tools for functional end-use applications. At booth #2501, the company presented a full manufacturing setup featuring six 3D printers operating across five different technologies. Over 120 printed parts were shown, including components relevant to sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, and industrial equipment. In addition to hardware and materials, the exhibit included software and post-processing tools used to streamline manufacturing from print preparation to final finishing. Stratasys also featured the CALLUM SKYE, a low-volume electric vehicle developed using its technologies. The vehicle served as a case study for additive-enabled workflows spanning design, tooling, and part fabrication. Stratasys booth at RAPID + TCT 2025, featuring the CALLUM SKYE electric vehicle. Photo via CALLUM. “Additive manufacturing stands at an important crossroads as manufacturers across the globe decide on the right path forward during a period of opportunity, risk, and uncertainty,” said Rich Garrity, Chief Business Unit Officer at Stratasys. “The need for AM has never been greater, and the team looks forward to discussing in Detroit the clear advantages of integrating additive into the manufacturing floor to lower costs, increase efficiency, and overcome challenges such as supply chain stability.” Several additional materials and systems were previewed for the company’s Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and P3 DLP platforms. These announcements were framed around high-demand applications in industrial, electronics, and medical manufacturing. This shift from prototyping to production is being observed broadly across the additive industry. Stratasys Logo. Image via Stratasys. Product availability timelines for the Neo800+ printer and PolyJet ToughONE material have not yet been disclosed. Further technical updates are expected at upcoming trade shows later in the year, including events in Europe and Asia. RAPID + TCT 2025 highlights industrial consolidation and on-site production trends This year’s RAPID + TCT 2025 featured a wave of hardware and materials announcements pointing to the industrialization and decentralization of additive manufacturing. ATO Technology, a Polish developer of ultrasonic atomization systems, presented the ULTRA FREQUENCY SYSTEM for high-precision metal powder production, along with new versions of its ATO Cast and ATO Sieve tools. The company’s modular ecosystem enables in-house alloy development, powder recycling, and closed-loop workflows using feedstocks that include commercial rods, scrap, and custom ingots.  HP also used the show to demonstrate the scale and versatility of its additive manufacturing ecosystem. A collaboration with Blazin Rodz illustrated how its Multi Jet Fusion platform supports custom automotive production, while a new flame-retardant PA 12 developed with Evonik offered material advances aimed at regulated industries. Additional presentations featured HP’s work in prosthetics, circuit protection, and digital design through its AI-powered Text-to-3D tool.  HP blueflite’s drone. Photo via: HP Ready to discover who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image showcase Stratasys booth at RAPID + TCT 2025, featuring the CALLUM SKYE electric vehicle. Photo via CALLUM. Anyer Tenorio Lara Anyer Tenorio Lara is an emerging tech journalist passionate about uncovering the latest advances in technology and innovation. With a sharp eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Anyer has quickly made a name for himself in the tech community. Anyer's articles aim to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for a broad audience. In addition to his writing, Anyer enjoys participating in industry events and discussions, eager to learn and share knowledge in the dynamic world of technology.

Materialise, a Belgian software and 3D printing services company with over 30 years of experience in the additive manufacturing (AM) sector, has launched the 2025 version of its flagship Magics software. Presented at the RAPID + TCT 2025 trade show in Detroit, the updated software focuses on reducing preparation time for complex part geometries and improving support generation. The company also announced new Build Processor integrations developed in collaboration with Raplas and One Click Metal to improve throughput and control in resin and metal additive manufacturing environments. The new release integrates support for implicit modeling with nTop, a U.S.-based company that specializes in functionally driven design software for engineering applications. This update allows Magics to handle implicit geometry files directly, bypassing traditional mesh conversion processes. According to Materialise, the new workflow reduces part preparation from several days to a matter of seconds. DMG MORI Technium Europe, the additive division of the German CNC manufacturer DMG MORI, tested the integration through a 2024 early access program. The team used it to prepare an AKZ FDS adapter, a part used in CNC machine tools. “Before joining the Materialise and nTop Early Access Program, meshing complex geometries consumed days of work. Now, with the new integration into Magics, it takes seconds,” said Martin Blanke, Project Engineer Additive Manufacturing at DMG MORI Technium Europe GmbH. He noted that the system enabled high-performance geometry processing that previously exceeded workstation capabilities. The new Magics 2025. Image via Materialise. By removing the need to convert complex lattice and volumetric structures into traditional meshes, the implicit workflow minimizes memory usage and computational demands. Materialise’s Build Processor platform complements this by enabling direct slicing and print parameter control. The updated software introduces full support for boundary representation (BREP) geometry. This allows users to work with native CAD files rather than mesh-based models throughout the workflow. As a result, part quality is preserved, and operations such as wall thickness analysis, nesting, and measurement can be conducted with higher precision. Magics now supports direct export to STEP format for integration with CAM software. Several tools target post-processing reduction. Replace Part & Transfer Support enables consistent support transfer when modifying part designs, which lowers the risk of human error in repetitive build preparation tasks. A Self-Supporting Shell & Honeycomb tool has been added to minimize the need for external supports in metal laser powder bed fusion and other powder-based systems. Magics 2025 allows editing of complex, composed parts. Image via Materialise. Materialise reports internal benchmarks showing up to 70% faster performance for the Extrude function and 50% for the Perforator tool, along with a 40% decrease in video memory usage when marking mesh parts. Raplas Build Processor improves SLA speed and part quality Materialise also unveiled a Build Processor developed jointly with Raplas, a UK-based manufacturer of stereolithography (SLA) 3D printers and photopolymer materials. The integration is designed for large-format SLA production, with improved slicing and parameter customization capabilities. “By combining Raplas’ tailor-made SLA 3D printing technology with Materialise’s advanced Build Processor, we are addressing inefficiencies of legacy systems,” said Raplas CEO Richard Wooldridge. According to Wooldridge, test prints show a 30–40% increase in speed and reduced post-processing compared to previous setups. Applications include investment casting, medical part production, and prototyping for automotive components. Earlier in March, Materialise introduced another Build Processor integration with One Click Metal, a German manufacturer of entry-level metal 3D printers for small and medium enterprises. The collaboration offers more granular print control and better reliability for users in the mid-market segment, where balancing cost and performance remains a key concern. The new Replace Part & Transfer Support tool in Magics 2025. Image via Materialise. Materialise North America’s Vice President and General Manager Bryan Crutchfield said the latest software and hardware announcements are designed to support the next generation of additive production workflows. “These solutions empower customers to save time, reduce risks, and lower costs, supporting successful AM builds from start to finish,” he said. The 2025 release of Magics will be available commercially in May.  Ready to discover who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image showcase The new Magics 2025. Image via Materialise. Anyer Tenorio Lara Anyer Tenorio Lara is an emerging tech journalist passionate about uncovering the latest advances in technology and innovation. With a sharp eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Anyer has quickly made a name for himself in the tech community. Anyer's articles aim to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for a broad audience. In addition to his writing, Anyer enjoys participating in industry events and discussions, eager to learn and share knowledge in the dynamic world of technology.

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed a compact water-cooled condenser using additive manufacturing (AM), demonstrating a significant performance improvement over conventional heat exchanger designs. Published in the International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, the study introduces a 3D-printed aluminum condenser for R134a refrigerant with internal features tailored to maximize heat transfer efficiency. The device achieved volumetric power densities of up to 6.2 MW/m³, outperforming traditional shell-and-tube designs by 30–50% while maintaining comparable pumping power. 3D printing enables advanced internal geometries The condenser was fabricated using laser powder bed fusion in AlSi10Mg alloy, enabling the creation of complex internal geometries unachievable with subtractive methods. These include chevron-shaped flow disruptors on the refrigerant side and cross-shaped wavy fins on the water side, designed to enhance turbulence and improve local heat transfer coefficients. Unlike conventional heat exchangers, which rely on stacked plates or finned tubes, this 3D printed architecture allows for precisely tuned internal structures that manage flow, pressure drop, and thermal resistance across multiple fluid paths. Cut-away CAD view of heat exchanger design, showing inset images of the chevrons in the refrigerant-side channels (top) and 3D wavy fins in the water-side channels (bottom). Image via William P. King. Multi-pass crossflow architecture for compact performance The condenser features a multi-pass, multi-channel crossflow architecture, designed to optimize heat exchange between water and refrigerant within a compact footprint. In a crossflow configuration, the two fluids, cooling water and refrigerant, flow perpendicular to one another, enhancing thermal contact across the heat exchanger’s internal surfaces.  Design of the AM crossflow refrigerant condenser. Image via William P. King. Multiple parallel flow paths within each fluid domain, increase surface area and improve flow distribution. Both the water and refrigerant are routed through the condenser in several sequential stages. In this design, the refrigerant flows through four passes, each with progressively narrower channels to compensate for increasing density as it condenses. Simultaneously, water flows through its own four-pass circuit in the opposite direction.  This architecture enables fine control over fluid velocity, pressure drop, and thermal gradients, ensuring efficient energy transfer between the two working fluids. Despite its internal complexity, the unit maintains a compact outer dimension of 260 × 235 × 39 mm. Simulation-guided optimization and machine learning integration To optimize water-side performance, the research team combined 2D finite element simulations with a machine learning model trained on 36,000 parameterized fin shapes. The model predicted fin efficiency and area enhancement factor as inputs to a physics-based segmented thermal model. Design candidates were filtered through parametric sweeps and refined using CFD simulations to verify local temperature, velocity, and pressure distributions. Segmentation procedure of the condenser. Image via William P. King Experimental verification in a custom vapor-compression loop The prototype was experimentally tested in a custom-built vapor-compression loop. The condenser demonstrated heat transfer rates between 3 kW and 8 kW, at refrigerant saturation temperatures ranging from 35°C to 49°C. Water-side flow rates were tested between 5 and 40 liters per minute. The physics-based model and CFD results matched experimental data within 5% accuracy, validating the reliability of the simulation framework. Compatibility with low-GWP refrigerants Although initially tested with R134a, the study evaluated performance with other refrigerants such as R1234yf, R32, propane, and isobutane. These refrigerants have lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to R134a and were assessed using the same geometry and comparable volumetric flow rates. Simulations showed that R32 achieved up to twice the heat transfer rate of R134a at higher flow rates, while propane and R1234yf showed similar or slightly improved performance. Outlook for additive thermal components The research provides a validated design methodology for compact, high-efficiency two-phase heat exchangers using AM. The ability to fine-tune thermal resistance, flow paths, and geometry at the segment level, combined with verified CFD and experimental results, positions this approach as viable for real-world applications in HVAC, automotive, data centers, and aerospace systems. The condenser design adds to a growing body of research and commercial development using 3D printing to reshape heat exchanger performance. A recent study by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), highlighted in MIT Technology Review, explored using metal 3D printing to fabricate miniaturized heat exchangers for use in electronics and aerospace. These devices incorporated folded geometries to maximize surface area, though performance gains in early testing remained modest. Meanwhile, companies like Conflux Technology,  In October 2024, Conflux raised €11 million in Series B funding to expand its production of  3D printed heat exchangers using laser powder bed fusion. The company has also partnered with Rocket Factory Augsburg to integrate 3D-printed heat exchangers into orbital rockets, demonstrating the applicability of AM in producing components capable of withstanding extreme conditions. The company also launched a high-performance cartridge-style heat exchanger designed for fluid control systems in automotive and industrial environments, characterized by its compact form and optimized internal geometry.  Other efforts include GE Research, which developed a grape-shaped 3D-printed heat exchanger capable of operating at 900°C, surpassing the temperature limits of existing solutions by over 200°C. These developments demonstrate the flexibility and application-specific design benefits of additive manufacturing in thermal management systems. The full research paper, Additively Manufactured Compact Water-Cooled Refrigerant Condenser, is available here via International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer. Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Feature image shows Design of the AM crossflow refrigerant condenser. Image via MIT William P. King. Rodolfo Hernandez Rodolfo Hernández is a writer and technical specialist with a background in electronics engineering and a deep interest in additive manufacturing. Rodolfo is most interested in the science behind technologies and how they are integrated into society.

ATO Technology, a Polish developer of ultrasonic atomization systems for metal powder production, has debuted its ULTRA FREQUENCY SYSTEM alongside next-generation versions of its ATO Cast and ATO Sieve at RAPID + TCT 2025. Exhibiting at Booth 3208 in partnership with U.S. distributor Additive Plus, the company aims to expand the possibilities of in-house metal powder production, offering greater efficiency, precision, and sustainability through its latest innovations. Cutting-edge developments in ultrasonic atomization Leading the lineup is the ULTRA FREQUENCY SYSTEM, a high-precision ultrasonic atomizer designed for the production of fine metal powders with an average particle size of 25 µm. This fourth-generation frequency system offers a narrow particle size distribution, making it particularly suitable for high-precision additive manufacturing and advanced powder metallurgy applications. It marks a significant advancement for users seeking tighter control over powder characteristics and improved performance in demanding production environments. Also debuting is the new-generation ATO Cast, a fully re-engineered induction vacuum casting furnace. It features a built-in oxygen sensor, an integrated pyrometer with live camera monitoring, and a redesigned user interface aimed at improving safety and user experience. Compatible with all ATO rod-feeding systems, the ATO Cast supports alloy development, material recovery, and rod production, making it a flexible tool for in-house material innovation.Beyond sustainability benefits, the platform gives users the ability to produce both standard and custom alloy compositions. This enhances R&D flexibility and accelerates product development, while bringing powder production in-house allows manufacturers to gain tighter control over supply chains and reduce lead times. ATO´s ULTRA FREQUENCY SYSTEM diagram. Image via ATO. Towards sustainable, on-demand manufacturing Together, ATO’s new devices form a modular ecosystem that enables the full-cycle production of metal powders from a wide variety of feedstocks, including commercial rods, wires, custom ingots, and even scrap generated by 3D printing operations. This approach supports a closed-loop manufacturing model, allowing users to recover and reuse materials efficiently while reducing waste and overall material costs. In addition to its environmental benefits, this production model enables users to create both standard and custom alloy compositions, offering greater freedom in R&D and material prototyping. By bringing powder production in-house, manufacturers can respond more quickly to project needs while maintaining greater control over supply chains. See the complete metal powder production and recovery workflow ATO´s Cast. Photo via ATO. Decentralized powder production ATO’s latest product launches reflect a broader trend in metal additive manufacturing towards greater control over material supply chains and powder customization. Similar developments were seen when SPEE3D expanded its cold spray systems to support on-site production of metal parts in sub-zero environments, highlighting the need for portable, decentralized manufacturing capabilities. Meanwhile, the launch of Velo3D’s Sapphire XC 1MZ demonstrated how equipment manufacturers are responding to industry calls for higher throughput and better powder efficiency. With its ultrasonic atomization technology andclosed-loop material workflows, ATO joins a growing list of companies reshaping how metal powders are sourced, processed, and reused within additive ecosystems.ATO’s latest launches reflect a growing trend in metal additive manufacturing toward localized, customizable, and resilient production workflows. For example, SPEE3D’s on-site production of metal parts in sub-zero environments showcases the push for portable, on-demand part manufacturing. Similarly, the launch of Velo3D’s Sapphire XC 1MZ highlights how hardware manufacturers are scaling up throughput and powder efficiency to meet industrial demand. With its advanced ultrasonic atomization technology and closed-loop material recovery systems, ATO is contributing to this broader shift, reshaping how metal powders are sourced, processed, and reused within modern additive manufacturing ecosystems.ATO´s Sieve. Photo via ATO. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows ATO’s Cast. Image via ATO Technology.

amsight, a German startup focused on data-driven process optimization, has completed a pre-seed funding round. The round includedA contributions from five investors: MBG Schleswig-Holstein and business angels Michael Wohlmuth, Alexander Flamboe, Andreas Berkau, and Michael Jonker. In addition to capital, the investors bring expertise spanning additive manufacturing, finance, and sales—providing value beyond funding. The investment will support the expansion of amsight’s sales and product development teams, as well as efforts to scale its platform and enter new markets. A second closing is planned, with participation open to investors with relevant experience in industrial digitalization and AM technologies. “This funding enables us to take the next big step,” said Dr.-Ing. Tim Wischeropp, Co-Founder and CEO of amsight. “Our mission is to bring data-driven transparency to additive manufacturing—streamlining processes, enhancing quality, and reducing material waste. We’re grateful for the strategic and financial backing of our investor group.” amsight team with its investors: Alexander Flamboe, Peter Lindecke, Raoul Dittmann, Tim Wischeropp, Simon Schauß, Andreas Berkau, Jonas Hansen (MBG SH), Michael Wohlmuth, Michael Jonker. Photo via amsight. Platform Overview amsight is developing a software platform that applies statistical methods and artificial intelligence to analyze production data from industrial 3D printing. By consolidating information from across the entire process chain and combining it with domain-specific knowledge, the software helps users detect root causes of defects, refine print parameters, and minimize waste. Engineered specifically for additive manufacturing environments, the platform offers seamless integration with existing production systems. Key features include real-time monitoring, detailed analytics, and end-to-end process transparency. Peter Lindecke (Co-Founder of amsight) testing the software. Photo via: amsight Milestones and Recognition Last year, amsight was named a winner in the Digital Innovation Startup Competition organized by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). The jury awarded amsight €7,000 and a coaching budget, recognizing its digital twin technology and its potential to improve cost-efficiency, quality, and resource use in additive manufacturing. New Defect Detection Tools 3D printing software and services company Materialise offers its AI-powered Process Control software for metal 3D printing. This tool allows users to control the quality of parts by analyzing data collected during additive manufacturing. Through this process, problematic parts can be located before the post-processing and quality inspection stages, which can add 30% to 70% to the costs of a final part.   Phase3D and Sigma Additive Solutions supported Materialise in the development of this software. They combined their supplementary data to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the 3D printing process.  Elsewhere, Californian metal 3D printer manufacturer Velo3D’s Assure Quality Assurance and Control System monitors the 3D printing process on its laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) Sapphire 3D printers. The tool offers live detection of defects and generates control and build report summaries.  Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows amsight team with its investors: Alexander Flamboe, Peter Lindecke, Raoul Dittmann, Tim Wischeropp, Simon Schauß, Andreas Berkau, Jonas Hansen (MBG SH), Michael Wohlmuth, Michael Jonker. Photo via: amsight Paloma Duran Paloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future.

A conversation between Würth Additive Group and Vestas at the 2025 AMUG Conference discusses additive manufacturing as a scalable tool for managing supply chain risk, reducing downtime, and aligning with digital and sustainability strategies.  AJ Strandquist, CEO of Würth Additive Group, and Jeremy Haight, Principal Engineer & Lead Specialist – Additive Manufacturing & Advanced Concepts, at wind turbine leader Vestas, unpacked how tightly controlled digital workflows, qualified platforms, and strategic deployment are unlocking real-world value from 3D printing.  Jeremy Haight, Vestas and AJ Strandquist, Würth Additive Group [L-R]. Photo by Michael Petch. TLDR? Key Insights Pressed for time? Here are the core insights from the experience of Würth Additive Group and Vestas with additive manufacturing. Think in terms of systems Standards and qualification are lagging but crucial Additive manufacturing’s strength is in the supply chainDigital control and lockdown of processes are essential The industry suffers from a lack of interoperability Backward compatibility is hard, forward integration is better Quality failures require root cause analysis, not blame Additive Manufacturing’s Supply Chain Moment: Würth and Vestas Eye Scale with Digital Inventory, Quality Controls Würth Additive Group and Vestas are building the infrastructure for additive manufacturing to move beyond niche applications and into global-scale, supply chain-critical roles. Strandquist framed the opportunity—and the challenge—with a touch of dry humor. “All the party animals are in this room talking about liabilities and quality concerns,” opening the session in Chicago. The two leaders are overseeing the deployment of additive manufacturing as a foundational capability within highly structured industrial ecosystems. Strandquist’s mandate is to integrate additive manufacturing into Würth’s global logistics and distribution networks, embedding digital part fulfillment into traditional supply chains. The goal, he explained, is to ensure that customers can order 3D printed parts with the same ease and procedural traceability as legacy components. “For us, wherever that demand comes from… they’re going to place an order into a system,” he said. “From that system, we are going to integrate so a buyer sees the part on the screen just like anybody else does… [with] complete traceability.” The underlying vision is a seamless supply experience—whether parts are made traditionally, pulled from stock, or 3D printed locally on demand. This includes modalities as diverse as vending machines and e-commerce. The Würth AM leader draws a distinction between cost-driven components and critical engineered parts, noting that “quality is not consistent”—and shouldn’t be. “I specialize in parts that are very low cost… like automotive clips,” he said, contrasting this with Vestas’s use cases, which include R&D prototypes and operational components in high-risk environments. These differences demand scalable quality regimes, such as Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), with levels ranging from “use any machine and any vendor” flexibility to traceability down to raw material origins. Haight highlighted the need to balance internal and external production while ensuring the sanctity of quality documentation and design control. Both executives stressed that additive manufacturing often steps in as a second-source or emergency solution. As Strandquist put it: “3D printing always does best in [special] situations. The price point doesn’t matter when something’s missing.” This flexibility introduces new considerations around intellectual property and digital security. Ensuring that only approved files are used, and that they are not modified or leaked, is critical. Vestas and Würth Advance AM Supply Chains with Rigorous Controls and Distributed Infrastructure The transition of additive manufacturing to an industrial-scale technology demands enterprise-grade systems, traceability, and precise vendor control—alongside the physical decentralization that defines the technology’s core advantage. “Across industry, especially in heavy industry, additive is seen either as novelty—or something exclusive to aerospace and medical. Digital manufacturing removes that mental barrier,” said Haight. For some time, the term “digital manufacturing,” or DVM was used at Vestas to remove this artificial barrier to adoption. Haight oversees a program that spans composite tooling, metal components, and concrete printing, all integrated into a global enterprise stack. The architecture ties in AM part production with Vestas’s existing ERP, PLM, and asset management systems. “Right off the printer, they get the part and the ISO 17025-qualified inspection report with it. That’s all tied into our enterprise asset management system—fluid and automated,” he explained. The Vestas roadmap, already partially implemented, includes mobile units embedded in EVs that 3D print parts en route to remote wind farms.  Würth Additive Group is aligning its infrastructure accordingly. The CEO noted the importance of preserving manufacturing fidelity without introducing complexity at the customer interface. Repeatability often hinges on process discipline, especially in mid-volume applications. One contributor described a production run of “under 100,000 per year,” developed over seven years with a QA/QC pipeline embedded directly into the partner company’s systems. The bottlenecks, unsurprisingly, have been in material consistency and knowledge loss as teams changed. Strandquist underscored this as a known risk. “That was a living process, not a frozen one. I always say: freeze it, then you can thaw it and freeze it again. But you never want to be out of that frozen state very long if you have a production part.” To combat fragmentation and maintain data discipline, Vestas operates on a strict ‘recipe’ model when outsourcing AM work. “We have a qualified machine, qualified materials with batch and lot traceability, and we simply provide [vendors] a recipe,” Haight said. “They can run it, do visual inspection, but that’s the limit of what they can do.” Sensitive IP is protected using classic techniques such as segmented production and robust NDAs—“sometimes you’re not going to get around it.” Internally, Vestas has mapped out the additive landscape by technology and business function—composites, metals, base polymers, concrete—and tied them to process families, use cases, and ROI thresholds. The logic is surgical: match material and process capabilities directly to component types, from turbine blade precast molds to rotor-stator assemblies and directional fiber reinforcement. “We want something that’s going to merge with your ecosystem, not fight it,” Haight emphasized.  Jeremy Haight shows how Vestas maps the landscape. Photo by Michael Petch. Locking Down the Digital Factory: Vestas and Würth Tackle IP Control, Operator Simplicity, and Legacy Parts in AM Supply Chains Additive manufacturing’s promise of distributed, on-demand production hinges not just on technology readiness but on governance, security, and organizational alignment. That means managing everything from untrained field operators to multi-million-part inventories with automation, policy enforcement, and strategic vendor selection. “The people in the field don’t need to be experts,” said Haight. “We use RBAC—role-based access control. These are pre-fixed recipes stored in our PLM. They can’t be modified. It’s locked down by design.” This is not only a matter of usability, but also of trust and compliance. Strandquist noted that errors and deviations are rarely technological. “If you can’t trust your people to follow a standard operating procedure, you can’t trust them with anything else,” he said. “There’s no fixing deviancy. The best you can do is design systems so it’s hard to cheat.” Vestas, operating across dozens of countries, avoids such risk by choosing closed ecosystem platforms and suppliers. Their initial AM rollout centered on closed-loop systems with tight administrative controls. “We own the mandate for additive,” said Haight. “We want to discourage non-compliant printers or materials entering our factories.” In some cases, such as concrete tower components, Vestas ships the entire printing process while sourcing raw materials locally. This avoids cross-border complexity while aligning with longer-term ambitions around circularity. “We’re working on reclaiming materials and recomposing them into new AM workflows,” said Haight. “Digital twin meets recyclability.” That model also opens a unique geopolitical advantage. “There are no tariffs on emails yet,” Strandquist quipped. “You can transform material in-country, avoid customs issues entirely, and still deliver a spec-inspected part. That’s a huge advantage when things get stuck at the border.” Still, the most enduring challenge lies in managing the legacy footprint. “We’ve got close to 32 million SKUs in our PLM and DMS,” Haight said. “So that’s a job for software.” Vestas uses automated part screening platforms to identify additive-suitable candidates, and in some cases, works directly with operators under right-to-repair laws. Their field qualification metric is straightforward: one year of continuous fault-free operation. For new parts, however, additive has more traction—particularly in long-lifecycle support. “Looking backward for AM is inherently hard,” said Strandquist. “The strength is in designing for additive from the beginning. Once your production tooling wears out, the 3D printed version is already certified because it was in the original test batch.” This forward-looking view also supports dynamic sourcing strategies. Both Haight and Strandquist described additive as a bridge and fallback in the face of tooling delays or vendor outages. “It opens up alternative supply options,” Haight said. “You never want to be single-source.” Standards, Supply Chains, and Stakeholder Trust: AM Leaders Urge Structural Maturity in Digital Manufacturing The industry’s next evolution depends less on technology than it does on institutional trust, interoperable standards, and system-wide process controls. Despite the focus on automation and documentation, failures still require forensic analysis. “If a part breaks after 10,000 units, that’s not an AM issue. That’s a design issue,” said Strandquist. “But if one breaks on its own, you start looking at the black box.” Resistance from inside organisations remains a hurdle, especially among engineers accustomed to legacy systems. “A lot of them have been jaded by automation that only delivered 30% of what was promised,” Haight said. The response has been to demonstrate performance directly: “Put the part in their hand. Prove it.” Environmental metrics—another critical performance area—remain difficult to quantify with confidence. While Vestas aligns its AM programme with decarbonisation goals and Industry 4.0 principles, the carbon math is elusive. “It’s an incredibly complex model,” said Haight. “We try, but it’s mostly qualitative.” Strandquist agreed: “I haven’t seen a tool I would bet my reputation on. There’s too much nuance for a punch-in algorithm.” Still, the industrial logic is hard to dispute. AM cuts downtime risk and inventory costs. Yet the broader industry remains fragmented by design. Standardised machine communications and cross-platform compatibility are still missing. “It’s like early railroads,” Strandquist said. “Every state had a different gauge. They didn’t think nationally.” He warned that locking users into proprietary systems was self-defeating: “You don’t buy computers that can’t talk to each other. AM should be the same.” There are signs of movement. Both leaders acknowledged the progress of groups like ASTM F42, which is working on standardised data packaging and pedigree handling. “To unlock AM’s full value, new technologies must enter with robust vetting and a clear business case. “We look at technology readiness level and match it to a real customer need,” said Strandquist. “That proof of concept is where we learn the most.”  “If we’re strategic and objectively seeking business results, we’ll find a path,” Haight said. “But you need the mandate, the metrics—and the buy-in.” The path forward demands standardisation, openness, and the recognition that AM is not a magic bullet—it’s a business tool. “It’s a shortcut for your supply chain,” Strandquist noted, “but only if you treat it like part of the system, not something separate from it.” Read more from the 2025 AMUG Conference. Ready to discover who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image shows a 3D printed part made with DF2+. Photo via Würth Additive Group. Michael Petch Michael Petch is the editor-in-chief at 3DPI and the author of several books on 3D printing. He is a regular keynote speaker at technology conferences where he has delivered presentations such as 3D printing with graphene and ceramics and the use of technology to enhance food security. Michael is most interested in the science behind emerging technology and the accompanying economic and social implications.

German software company Trinckle has partnered with 3D printer OEM  Stratasys to integrate its fixturemate software into the GrabCAD Print™ Pro platform. The collaboration aims to simplify the design-for-manufacturing process and expand access to additive manufacturing (AM) by enabling a seamless, automated workflow from design through production. Amid rising demand for AM tooling and manufacturing aids, the two companies are showcasing their integration at RAPID + TCT in Detroit (April 8–10). The solution is expected to be launched later this year, with future plans for deeper integration and broader industrial applications. Stratasys and Trinckle simplify custom accessory design. Photo via Trinckle. Trinckle’s Fixturemate Simplifies Industrial Fixture Design Fixturemate, developed by Trinckle, streamlines the fixture design process by automating its most complex stages. The software enables users to quickly generate secure, high-precision holding fixtures in a matter of minutes. Designed with industrial manufacturing in mind, Fixturemate simplifies workflows and removes the dependency on advanced CAD skills, reducing design time and making the technology accessible to non-technical teams. “By eliminating the need for specialized CAD skills, we’re offering manufacturers greater workforce flexibility and significant time savings,” said Victor Gerdes, Vice President of Software at Stratasys. “Embedding fixturemate into GrabCAD Print Pro extends our platform’s value across the full manufacturing design lifecycle.” With built-in geometry optimization, Fixturemate ensures each fixture securely holds the part while allowing access to key surfaces for operations like machining, inspection, and assembly. Its versatility makes it a powerful tool across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, metrology, and logistics. “Together, we’re removing one of the biggest barriers in additive—manual, CAD-heavy fixture design,” said Florian Reichle, CEO and Co-Founder of Trinckle. “Now, anyone can design custom, production-ready fixtures in minutes, unlocking new efficiencies across the manufacturing floor.” Trinckle integrates Fixturemate software with Stratasys GrabCAD Print™ Pro software. Image via Trinckle. GrabCAD Print Pro & Broader AM Software Momentum In 2024, Stratasys released GrabCAD Streamline Pro and an updated version of GrabCAD Print Pro for PolyJet technology, aimed at boosting efficiency and reducing operating costs. The original release of Print Pro reportedly improved hardware utilization for some customers by 30–50%. Stratasys isn’t alone in advancing AM software. Velo3D, for example, launched Flow Developer, a tool enabling full control over metal AM parameters for its Sapphire LPBF printers. Users can import or define print settings, streamlining transitions from design to production. Early-access partners like Ursa Major have reported gains in scalability and production consistency. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows the integration of Trinckle’s Fixturemate software with Stratasys GrabCAD Print™ Pro software. Image via Trinckle.

At the 2025 AMUG Conference, industry leaders delivered a clear message: additive manufacturing is maturing beyond prototyping and hype, driven by real-world demands for localisation, sustainability, and production agility. Executives from Würth Additive Group, Stratasys, DMG MORI, GoEngineer, and SME converged around a shared theme—technology alone is no longer enough. Adoption hinges on quantifiable value, process integration, workforce readiness, and a shift away from proprietary ecosystems. With lifecycle analysis, decentralised production, and AI-powered design gaining traction, the additive manufacturing sector is recalibrating for scale and resilience across both industrial and consumer-facing applications. Würth Additive Group’s AJ Strandquist speaking at the 2025 AMUG Conference. Photo by Michael Petch. Key Takeaways from the Diamond Sponsor panel The Monday panel, moderated by Adam J. Penna, drew out insights from the conference’s Diamond sponsors, emphasizing a strategic commitment to additive manufacturing.  Additive’s future depends as much on integration and education as it does on technology: Training, software usability, and standards will be as decisive as 3D printer specs or material advances.Generative AI is lowering creative barriers, just as additive tech is becoming cheaper and more available. The intersection of AI and AM could trigger a new wave of decentralised, design-driven manufacturing. Sustainability is not a ‘nice to have’—it’s aligning with procurement logic, especially when it also delivers cost, speed, and operational continuity. Emergency logistics is a hidden emissions sink: while flying to deliver a missing bolt might be an extreme case there is a huge sustainability argument for distributed additive manufacturing. Additive Manufacturing Leaders Highlight AI, Automation and Productivity Gaps Representing a cross-section of stakeholders from machine OEMs to digital solutions providers, the panelists underscored the critical role of industrial AM in reshaping supply chains, national defense, and manufacturing resilience. Speaking on behalf of SME, a nonprofit that champions manufacturing innovation, Stacey Eeman, Director of Industry Strategy, made the organization’s mission clear, “We are here to help convene and educate… to build supplier resiliency and competitiveness for national security.” SME’s presence, she added, is tightly linked to its emphasis on defense-sector adoption and cross-sector knowledge transfer. Stratasys, a cornerstone of polymer additive manufacturing, is shifting its posture to align with more defined industrial outcomes. “We deal with some of the most challenging customers in the business; they’re coming up with the hardest problems,” said Foster Ferguson, VP of Industrial Business at Stratasys. Drawing from his two decades of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Ferguson emphasized the importance of listening to end-users to align product development with mission-critical needs. AJ Strandquist, CEO of Würth Additive Group, highlighted the company’s strategic evolution from a distribution-focused enterprise into a digital manufacturing solutions provider. Initially embedding AM to support internal manufacturing, Würth quickly discovered the legal, IP, and compliance complexities of integrating AM at scale. This led to the development of a proprietary software platform designed to manage digital inventory and production workflows. “We learned internally what was required,” Strandquist noted, “and ended up bringing it to the show.” DMG MORI’s Additive Solutions General Manager Alex Richard framed additive as part of a broader transformation of industrial technology portfolios. His team, overseeing both sales and engineering across the U.S., is integrating additive into subtractive-heavy customer bases, with a view to offering hybrid production ecosystems. “The need for future manufacturing to include additive,” he said, “is now foundational.” Tyler Reid, VP of Digital Manufacturing at GoEngineer, delivered a grassroots perspective rooted in engineering enablement. “We convert dreamers into builders,” he said, referencing the firm’s emphasis on technical enablement. With nearly 20 technical staff on-site, GoEngineer—one of the largest value-added resellers —focuses on tool access, hands-on support, and vertical integration of design-to-print workflows.  “We’re starting to see just glimpses of [AI], but it’s a type of technology that as soon as it hits, it hits hard,” said Reid. “We need to figure out how to smartly implement AI into product workflows—trying to get to a point where additive solutions are ready for production.” He also projected a near-term surge in consumer-facing 3D printing, likening the effect of generative design and AI to a tipping point in visual inspiration. “The barrier to creation is about to collapse. Three years from now, consumer demand for personal printers will be on another level.” Ferguson of Stratasys reinforced that AI and automation are only part of the solution. “The real problem is framing the problem. What are we trying to solve?” he said, adding that strategic partnerships will be essential as no single OEM can cover the entire value chain. Stratasys, for example, increasingly works with partners across post-processing and validation technologies to deliver what Ferguson called “site-to-site repeatability and accuracy” at scale. He stressed that beyond the visible aspects of polymer 3D printing, the backend infrastructure—from materials logistics to field service—is what enables scale. For metal-focused manufacturing, DMG MORI’s Richard outlined a challenge rooted in long-term industrial productivity. He underscored that traditional subtractive machines are unlikely to be replaced one-for-one due to demographic and economic constraints. “There are 5 million machine tools out there now. Collectively, the industry will probably only build a million more over the next 30 years,” he said. “We don’t have the workforce to build or operate machines at that historic scale.” Richard emphasized that his team is addressing this productivity gap by engineering systems capable of producing five times more output than today’s standard machines. DMG MORI’s focus lies in the total process chain—design, build, and post-process—with additive playing an increasingly integral role. “It’s about how we support that process chain… how do we do it efficiently, how do we make individual machines more productive, and how do we build systems that can support more with fewer people?” Stacey Eeman of SME speaking at the 2025 AMUG Conference. Photo by Michael Petch. From Prototype to Production: Additive Manufacturing’s Push into Defense and Distributed Logistics AJ Strandquist, CEO of Würth Additive Group, emphasised the systemic challenges of scaling AM beyond prototyping. “People talk about serial production and think 50,000 pieces in one batch,” he said. “But the real trick is 50,000 prints in 50,000 locations—how do I collect the paperwork for that?” His team’s answer is a software platform built around legacy enterprise requirements. “They’re not going to change for us,” he added. “So the question becomes, how do you take their process and their framework and build around it?” Würth’s software, first unveiled at last year’s AMUG Conference, is designed to address the administrative bottlenecks of decentralized part production, ensuring traceability, certification, and quality documentation at scale. This infrastructure is essential for applications such as forward-positioned inventory and digital warehousing, particularly in military logistics. “You don’t want to be a loose thread,” Strandquist noted. “You want to be woven into the fabric of operations.” DMG MORI described how the company has evolved its additive machines into hybrid systems capable of both subtractive and additive processes. The military sector, long an early adopter of AM for prototyping and tooling, is now pushing for operational deployment. The Army integrated CAD models and digital engineering practices for the first time on the XM30 next-gen combat vehicle, explained SME’s Eeman. “That’s a huge milestone. It shows that digital engineering is finally connecting with real-world defense manufacturing.” Ferguson of Stratasys pointed to real traction in airframe and defense components. “We’ve had strong success with the U.S. Air Force and NAVSEA,” he said. The addressable market is substantial—he cited a $27 billion opportunity in aerospace part production—but winning it requires not just hardware, but qualified, repeatable, traceable workflows.  Strandquist added that usability and mission-readiness are crucial for frontline adoption. Drawing inspiration from the simple instructional cartoon once printed on Bazooka packaging, he underscored that additive systems must be intuitive enough to operate under pressure. “If you can train someone to fire a rocket, you can train them to run an FDM printer,” he said.  Yet not all voices supported the continued prioritisation of the defense sector. Tyler Reid, VP of Digital Manufacturing at GoEngineer, questioned whether the industry had grown too narrow. “Additive is still just 0.2% of global manufacturing,” he said. “Aerospace and defense are exciting, but heavily regulated and hard to scale. We need to expand into tooling and fixturing—accessible areas where production is realistic.” Tyler Reid, GoEngineer at AMUG Conference 2025. Photo by Michael Petch. Additive Manufacturing and the Supply Chain The CEO of Würth Additive Group, outlined how his company’s “Digital Inventory Services” software addresses the realities of additive supply chains. “The software is built to flex from very simple production parts to complex variants,” he said. It manages everything from ERP integration to quality control, tailoring compliance workflows to the nature of each component. “Most companies don’t want every part to go through the same QA as a turbine blade. That’s too much overhead.” Strandquist added that additive’s greatest operational advantage may lie in distributed manufacturing. Würth serves over 4 million customers, with 700,000 working in auto service centres globally, many of which require specialised service tools that are difficult to source due to trade barriers or long logistics chains. “By printing locally to standardised benchmarks, we’ve helped clients eliminate up to 30% of handling costs,” he said. “Instead of importing tools and dealing with customs classifications, they can produce and certify them in-country.” Stacey Eeman of SME added that additive’s most transformative impact may lie in its ability to respond to constraints—be it workforce shortages in welding or supply chain complexity in medical and defense logistics. “Point-of-use production in healthcare means more than it does even for sustainment commands,” she said. “This type of manufacturing gives us a way to act when traditional methods can’t.” Würth Additive Group demo at AMUG Conference 2025. Photo by Michael Petch. Additive Manufacturing Executives Link Sustainability to On-Demand Production and Process Simplification Sustainability is increasingly becoming a quantifiable differentiator for additive manufacturing leaders. The CEO of Würth Additive Group, argued that AM’s ability to localize production offers measurable environmental and operational advantages. “We replaced imported inventory with on-site additive manufacturing in a port city, using the same logistics network,” he said. “The result was a 20% decrease in total emissions. But the real impact shows up in emergency logistics. I’ve had customers put parts on planes—literally fly with them—because a $2 bolt missing can halt a $100,000 operation.” Stratasys is “working with OEMs like Airbus to align additive with long-term sustainability objectives,” said Foster Ferguson. “Localising manufacturing, particularly in depots and shipyards, is not just a green strategy—it’s a resilience strategy.” As Tyler Reid of GoEngineer put it, “Sustainability needs to be built into the ROI, not bolted on.” Stacey Eeman of SME highlighted how “Clean manufacturing is attracting young people with imaginative minds,” she said. “Now it’s up to us to provide the opportunities and pathways to bring them in.” Promising opportunities for additive manufacturing now lie in its ability to reduce emissions through distributed production, compress lead times via process consolidation, and unlock innovation by removing barriers to design and education. Sustainability, sometimes treated as a marketing differentiator, is becoming a measurable input to operational and procurement strategy. At the same time, the sector faces pressure to simplify adoption, standardise processes, and expand beyond its aerospace and defense comfort zone. As technologies like AI accelerate accessibility, the coming wave of adoption may be shaped less by machine specs and more by usability, interoperability, and the ability to serve a broader industrial base.Ready to discover who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image the AMUG Conference 2025, the view from the top. Photo by Michael Petch.

SUNLU, a Chinese manufacturer specializing in 3D printing filaments, resins, and accessories, introducing new filament dryers and an expanded materials portfolio at RAPID + TCT 2025 in Chicago. The company also announced its strategic entry into Eastern Europe through new regional partnerships. The company’s latest product line includes the FilaDryer E2 and SP2, both designed to maintain optimal humidity levels during filament storage and use. In parallel, SUNLU introduced a series of new filaments targeting industrial and consumer applications: PA6 reinforced with glass fiber for increased mechanical strength, TPU90A designed for flexibility and abrasion resistance, and PEEK—a high-performance thermoplastic known for its thermal and structural stability. Additional product launches included PLA Silk+ with four color variants, PLA Matte in dual-color options, and an ABS formulation with flame-retardant properties, expanding the company’s reach across both professional and consumer-grade material segments. “With the new FilaDryers and advanced filament range, we’re empowering both everyday creators and specialized engineers to achieve professional-grade results with every print,” said Mathieu Noguier, Europe Sales and Marketing Manager at SUNLU. The Company debuts industrial-grade materials and filament drying solutions. Photo via SUNLU. As part of a broader international expansion strategy, SUNLU has formalized distribution agreements with Botland in Poland and Bagrujto in the Czech Republic. These partnerships are intended to strengthen regional distribution networks and enhance responsiveness to local market demands. According to Wendy Yin, Head of the B2B Sales Department, “Our growth in Eastern Europe reflects our commitment to bringing innovative 3D printing solutions closer to local markets.” To support product demonstrations at RAPID + TCT, the company collaborated with VogMan, a specialist in 3D printing applications, and GamingTrend, a content platform focused on gaming and technology. Together, they are conducting live showcases featuring the new dryers and filament types. The demonstrations are designed to illustrate practical use cases in design prototyping, hobbyist modeling, and functional part production. Established in 2013 in Zhuhai, often referred to as China’s “Printing Supplies Capital,” SUNLU operates more than 40 production lines and has sold over 25 million units globally. The company holds more than 200 intellectual property rights, reflecting its long-term investment in research and development. SUNLU’s booth at RAPID + TCT 2025. Photo via SUNLU.  Industry Convergence at RAPID + TCT 2025 RAPID + TCT 2025 is positioned as a central hub for additive manufacturing collaboration through its co-location with America Makes’ Spring TRX event. Organized in partnership with SME, this integration brings together stakeholders from aerospace, defense, mobility, and advanced manufacturing to drive innovation and strategic discourse. With Michigan’s $30 billion defense manufacturing sector providing fertile ground for industrial adoption, the co-hosted event is expected to accelerate the deployment of advanced 3D printing technologies across sectors and foster greater synergy between research and commercialization. Alongside institutional partnerships, companies like Ford and Stratasys are reinforcing the role of AM in automotive prototyping and tooling. At this year’s show, Ford’s engineering team is showcasing applications of Stratasys’ F3300 printer to produce test components, jigs, and functional parts for design validation. As described by Erik Riha, Ford’s Prototype Technical Specialist, the technology enables rapid feedback during assembly testing—often delivering parts within hours. Fadi Abro, Stratasys’ Global Automotive Director, in turn, emphasized the limitations of low-cost desktop systems, arguing that industrial-grade hardware is essential for scaling 3D printing on production floors. The show floor at RAPID + TCT 2024. Photo via SME. Ready to discover who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image showcase SUNLU’s booth at RAPID + TCT 2025. Photo via SUNLU. Anyer Tenorio Lara Anyer Tenorio Lara is an emerging tech journalist passionate about uncovering the latest advances in technology and innovation. With a sharp eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Anyer has quickly made a name for himself in the tech community. Anyer's articles aim to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for a broad audience. In addition to his writing, Anyer enjoys participating in industry events and discussions, eager to learn and share knowledge in the dynamic world of technology.

The Wohlers Report, a cornerstone of market intelligence in additive manufacturing (AM), marks its 30th anniversary this year with substantial revisions informed by extensive industry consultations. In this exclusive interview with Madhi Jamshid, Director of Market Intelligence at Wohlers Associates, powered by ASTM International, provides insights into the additive manufacturing market and the state of industrial 3D printing in 2025. 3D Printing Industry readers can . The 2025 report indicates the global AM industry reached $21.9bn in value, segmented for the first time into distinct categories: $4.4bn from materials, $6bn from machine sales and related services, $10.1bn from printing services, and $1.4bn from software. This breakdown enhances clarity on performance and potential growth opportunities in each segment of the AM industry. Among these, the materials segment experienced the strongest growth rate, reflecting increasing industrial adoption. However, the machine manufacturing segment showed a decline of approximately 1.5%. Jamshid explained the downturn as partly mitigated by the inclusion of ongoing agreements and service revenues. In a new approach responding to industry feedback, Wohlers Associates has introduced and defined upper and lower growth boundaries to its market forecasts for the first time. The global AM market is projected to grow at an annual compounded rate of 18 per cent, potentially reaching $115bn by 2034. However, Jamshid stressed market volatility, noting that continued sluggishness could limit growth to around $84bn, whereas an accelerated recovery could boost the market to $145bn. Total AM Market Revenue. Image via Wohlers Associates, powered by ASTM International. The State of the 3D Printing Industry “2024 was a difficult year, but we had incremental success and growth,” Jamshid said, noting that while many companies reported positive figures, the overall market sentiment remained subdued. “We grew as an industry. We had successes, but it was not as high as we expected.” The Asia-Pacific region emerged as the top performer, achieving substantial growth compared with Europe, which saw moderate performance, and North America, where growth was negative. Jamshid explained that the strong performance in Asia-Pacific was fueled by increased adoption of entry-level machines, competitively priced industrial-grade machines, and a continued domestic adoption, particularly in China. Notably, Jamshid highlighted the growing importance of China within the additive manufacturing sector, although he expressed skepticism about the reliability of certain domestic figures. “The size of [the Chinese] market seems to be underestimated,” he remarked, indicating that Wohlers Associates believes official estimates may require adjustment. Wohlers Associates combined qualitative insights with quantitative survey responses to gauge market sentiment. Of companies providing feedback, approximately half expressed negative views about market conditions in 2024, while only a small minority described the year positively. Jamshid noted the complexity of market dynamics, stating, “Despite a significant portion of companies reporting declining revenue, many others demonstrate robust growth. It underscores how critical strategy and domain focus are for performance.”  The additive manufacturing industry is transitioning toward greater consolidation and a shift from product-centric to solution-oriented approaches. “Five or ten years ago, a lot of focus was on developing products—the next big machine with more lasers, the next sensor, or the next alloy. Now the industry has to focus on providing complete solutions. We anticipate companies, including new startups, to shift focus toward leveraging AM, not as the ultimate offering, but as an alternative or complementary solution for cost savings or enhanced performance. This shift signifies AM’s maturation, from novelty to application and now solution-driven approaches. AM companies will be expected to stay engaged with end-users through the implementation process, gaining a deep understanding of their real needs and offering custom solutions tailored to their specific requirements,” Jamshid said.  Looking ahead, Jamshid expects a continued consolidation driven partly by financial pressures and shifts in strategic focus. “The focus is not necessarily going to be on future growth or hype,” Jamshid explained. “Instead, it’s going to be on turnarounds, with an emphasis on acquiring troubled assets with valuable intellectual property (IP), cutting costs, and transforming them into successful companies with better strategies.” Jamshid predicted vertical integration would accelerate, with larger manufacturers and even end-users absorbing smaller companies. He also drew attention to market saturation among original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), particularly in China, where numerous new vendors have entered recently. Revenue growth rates in the AM Market- Category. Image via Wohlers Associates, powered by ASTM International. Insights into Strategic Approaches to Additive Manufacturing Jamshid pointed out that business models emphasizing tailored, high-value applications or specialized materials such as refractory alloys have proven effective. Firms focusing on sectors like defense have also gained an advantage by aligning strategically with governmental requirements and securing investments or research funding. “Trying to establish agreements with a specific set of customers and focus on their needs—for example, in the defense sector—has become an interesting strategy,” Jamshid said. Conversely, Jamshid cautioned against competing primarily through low-cost offerings, a strategy that has increased market share for some companies but could ultimately prove unsustainable. “The model that we do not recommend is trying to be the cheapest and trying to be everything to everyone,” he noted, adding that such approaches have historically underperformed. Geopolitical factors are further influencing competitive dynamics, with Western firms positioned advantageously for sectors such as aerospace and defence due to supply chain sensitivities. Jamshid suggested Asian manufacturers, particularly Chinese OEMs, could find greater success in industries with fewer geopolitical complications, including consumer goods and manufacturing support sectors such as footwear mold production.  Understanding the Global Additive Manufacturing Market by Region In total, the latest report integrates 356 category responses. Jamshid explained, “Companies are tagged based on the location of their additive manufacturing operations. For example, Nikon SLM Solutions, although Japanese-owned, manufactures most of its powder bed fusion machines in Germany and thus is classified as a German company.” Regional performance varied sharply. Asia demonstrated the highest growth, driven predominantly by China’s burgeoning internal AM sector. “Chinese offerings have become highly competitive—not just because of pricing, but also due to increasing domestic adoption in sectors like medical, aerospace, automotive industries, as well as recently emerging applications in shoe molding, consumer electronics, tire molds, and sport hardware,” Jamshid remarked. He highlighted China’s BLT manufacturing hinges for OPPO’s latest smartphone as a notable example. In contrast, the Americas experienced a decline. European growth was moderate, with Germany, historically a significant exporter of AM machinery, reporting a 20% reduction in exports (of all AM machines) compared to the previous year. Cross-border trade data also revealed shifting market dynamics. China’s exports rose significantly, coupled with reduced imports—a sign that domestic suppliers are increasingly meeting internal demand. The US, meanwhile, saw its AM machine imports surge, indicating increased reliance on foreign suppliers. Germany’s exports fell sharply, now representing only one-third of China’s total exports in this category. Exports from China, Germany, and the US combined amounted to approximately $2bn, exclusively covering AM machines and excluding domestic machine sales, materials, software, or printing services. Jamshid described this figure as an indication of the size of the overall AM industry. Germany continues to dominate the US market for metal additive manufacturing machines, accounting for approximately 80% of imports, despite a notable decline in the country’s overall AM equipment exports. According to research, this paradoxical situation underscores “limitations or considerations that US companies have when working with certain manufacturers or regions.” Revenue growth rates in the AM Market- Region. Image via Wohlers Associates, powered by ASTM International. Additive Manufacturing Market Growth Forecast and Trends Jamshid emphasized that materials and printing services are expected to be the primary beneficiaries of growth, with materials alone anticipated to experience a 21% compounded annual growth rate. “Materials providers will likely see the strongest growth rates over the next decade,” Jamshid remarked.  There is also growing optimism within end-user sectors, despite recent subdued machinery sales. “Many end-users have already invested heavily in machines over the past two to three years, and it takes considerable time—sometimes up to three years—for full-scale operational implementation,” he explained. He cited a major US military end-user as an example, noting their AM operation increased fourfold within one year, encompassing more parts, higher materials consumption, and expanded applications. Material producers are already benefiting from increased usage, with around 70 percent of those surveyed (of all sizes) reporting positive growth, according to Wohlers’ data. “The significant growth we’re seeing in material sales clearly signals expanding utilization of additive manufacturing,” Jamshid added. Beyond numbers, the 2025 Wohlers Report includes detailed information on AM applications in various industries, recent trends in investment, supply chain readiness, academic research, government-sponsored programs, and regional insights on the AM landscape and adoption. This level of cross-sector, multiregional insight is rare and instrumental for both granular and high-level strategic planning. Jamshid highlighted a significant expansion in contributions from industry experts, with around 230 specialists from six continents involved in creating this year’s comprehensive report. The insights provided by these experts offer essential contextual information for accurately interpreting market data.  Academic research data included in the report indicates that the US and China continue to lead in AM-related publications. However, when adjusted for GDP, performance varies significantly, suggesting differences in national research efficiency and investment strategies. This comparative analysis gives readers a deeper understanding of global innovation dynamics, not just volume.  The Voice of Customer “We began the development of this version by conducting a systematic voice-of-customer study this year, meeting in person with our historical clients, partners, and AM industry leaders in the US and Europe,” said Jamshid. “The industry is at a very different place compared to a decade or two ago. Our goal was to better understand evolving needs and interests of the AM industry—what stakeholders want to hear more of, and what data might no longer be as relevant.”The rigorous approach taken by the Wohlers Report development team seeks to incorporate best practices essential for any decent data analysis, among which are sampling error, selection bias, and size-effect bias. Jamshid underlined transparency in their methodology as a key differentiator, drawing on ASTM expertise and over 40 experts supporting the process of quality control and data verification in this year’s report. This approach is coupled with the crucial contribution of those 230 external industry experts whose insights constitute approximately 80% of the report. The Wohlers Report attracts a diverse readership, ranging from AM vendors and end-users to government, academia, investment communities, and by companies exploring additive manufacturing as a new business opportunity. Jamshid noted that the latest edition initiates the first phase of the Wohlers Report 2.0 initiative. It introduces substantial changes, including full transparency in methodologies, completely modernized visualizations, an expanded range of data sources, many new technical and regional sections, and technology-specific data. Acknowledging past user feedback, Jamshid emphasized enhanced accessibility: “One of the main complaints we received was that it was hard to use images and tables. So, this year, we are providing downloadable images and tables to users, along with the data behind our charts.” The Wohlers Report distinguishes itself by combining rigorous technical depth with comprehensive market analysis, offering a resource that supports both operational and technical decision-making and long-term strategic planning. It provides value across sectors—informing government stakeholders on supply chain capabilities and production readiness, guiding industry with insights on emerging technologies and applications, and supporting academic institutions in aligning research efforts with industry needs. Drawing on contributions from hundreds of experts, the report delivers context-rich data that helps organizations interpret trends, identify gaps, and prioritize investments. Wohlers Associates has introduced a licensing model instead of the traditional flat-rate pricing, aiming to improve affordability and accessibility for all users, including those from academia, small enterprises, and large corporations alike. The full 2025 Wohlers Report is available here, use the discount code “3DPI-WR25” to get 10% off the purchase price. Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image shows the Wohlers Report 2025. Image via Wohlers Associates powered by ASTM International. Michael Petch Michael Petch is the editor-in-chief at 3DPI and the author of several books on 3D printing. He is a regular keynote speaker at technology conferences where he has delivered presentations such as 3D printing with graphene and ceramics and the use of technology to enhance food security. Michael is most interested in the science behind emerging technology and the accompanying economic and social implications.

Airtech Advanced Materials Group, a U.S.-based supplier of composite tooling and additive manufacturing materials, has acquired the filament business of Kimya, a former subsidiary of French industrial conglomerate Armor Group. The deal includes the catalog of technical filaments, production and development infrastructure, validation equipment, and associated intellectual property. These assets will be incorporated into Airtech’s existing portfolio of pellets and filaments for large-format and high-performance additive manufacturing. Filament production is scheduled to resume at Airtech Europe’s headquarters in Luxembourg, where the company already manufactures its Dahltram line of thermoplastic pellet and filament resins. These materials are used in large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) systems and are designed for demanding industrial environments. The integration of Kimya’s capabilities is intended to strengthen Airtech’s supply reliability and technical support for customers working with engineering-grade polymers. “Airtech is excited to bring Kimya filaments to the global market and build on the great foundation of quality and technical support they had established,” said Gregory Haye, Director of Additive Manufacturing at Airtech. “We found Kimya’s portfolio to be highly aligned with our technical and customer-focused approach at Airtech to develop, sell, and support our family of high-performance resins. These materials are very complementary to our existing offerings, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds as we work to scale Kimya filaments to global markets and launch new and exciting formulations.” Prior to its exit, the French filament company was recognized for its focus on specialty thermoplastics, including carbon-fiber-reinforced filaments and custom formulations such as a PEKK material certified for use in the railway sector. The company also participated in collaborative development projects for clients in need of application-specific performance properties. Its filaments were adopted by equipment manufacturers including Stratasys, Ultimaker, and AON3D, largely due to consistent quality and traceability standards. Airtech’s Logo. Image via Airtech Advanced Materials Group. Kimya’s Exit from 3D Printing The company’s withdrawal from the additive manufacturing sector was first reported by 3D Printing Industry in November 2024. Armor Group had launched the materials business in 2017 with an investment of approximately €15 million, forecasting 30 to 40 percent annual growth. However, demand for high-performance 3D printing materials did not scale as expected, and the business faced pressure from declining equipment sales and broader economic constraints. While the number of industrial systems capable of processing advanced polymers has grown, adoption remains limited by operational complexity and a shortage of skilled personnel. Armor Group President Hubert de Boisredon confirmed the decision via LinkedIn, citing the decline in machine sales and overall economic pressures. In his statement, he expressed pride in the Kimya team’s work while acknowledging that market leaders such as Stratasys were also facing layoffs. He emphasized that while this marked the end of Kimya’s AM operations, it would not deter Armor Group from investing in new industrial technologies, including recent ventures in battery film production. Close up of Kimya’s PEKK filament next to 3D printed PEKK object. Photo via 3DGence. Ready to discover who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Anyer Tenorio Lara Anyer Tenorio Lara is an emerging tech journalist passionate about uncovering the latest advances in technology and innovation. With a sharp eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Anyer has quickly made a name for himself in the tech community. Anyer's articles aim to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for a broad audience. In addition to his writing, Anyer enjoys participating in industry events and discussions, eager to learn and share knowledge in the dynamic world of technology.

The EU-funded Keratoprinter project is developing a new 3D bioprinting platform to create full-thickness, curved human corneas. Aimed at tackling the global shortage of donor tissue, the initiative seeks to restore vision for millions affected by corneal blindness while prioritizing sustainability and patient-specific care. The 42-month research initiative brings together nine partners across five countries, including research institutions, clinical centers, and SMEs specializing in biomaterials, optics, and biofabrication. Funded under the Horizon Europe program, the project officially launched in January 2023 and is coordinated by Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP). What is the Keratoprinter? The Keratoprinter is a specialized 3D bioprinting system designed to replicate the curved, multilayered structure of the human cornea using natural biomaterials such as collagen. The project aims to develop a modular bioprinter capable of producing transparent,mechanically stable corneal tissue. It also involves the formulation of bio-based inks derived from human-compatible materials, optimized for extrusion. Digital tools will enable patient-specific customization using corneal topography data. The bioprinter will operate through a feedback-driven, adaptive bioprinting workflow, combining real-time imaging, sensor monitoring, and machine learning algorithms to ensure precision and repeatability throughout the tissue construction process. Corneal blindness is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. Most patients do not receive transplants due to donor shortages and limited surgical access. The Keratoprinter project aims to offer an accessible, scalable solution by enabling the localized production of corneal implants in hospitals and research labs. Sustainable, open, and modular Sustainability is central to the project’s design. The system will use recyclable construction materials and bio-based inks derived from renewable, safe sources. Its open, modular architecture allows for adaptation to different clinical and research needs, supporting future innovation. The project’s results will be made publicly available via the CORDIS webstile to ensure broad access to the technology, particularly in regions most affected by corneal blindness. KeratOPrinter Project Concept Schematic – Image via KeratOPrinter Building on global advances in corneal bioprinting The Keratoprinter initiative contributes to a rising global effort to solve corneal blindness using advanced bioprinting methods. In 2018, scientists at Newcastle University became the first to 3D print human corneas using a bio-ink made of stem cells, alginate, and collagen​. This was followed by efforts to create 4D self-curving corneas, enabling more accurate structural replication of native tissue. Researchers have since pushed the boundaries of corneal bioprinting through clinical testing and materials development. In 2022, scientists from India’s LV Prasad Eye Institute, in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), successfully tested the country’s first 3D printed cornea in rabbits, deeming it safe for human trials. Turkish researchers have also developed artificial cornea suitable for transplantation  using extrusion-based 3D printing. What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025? How is the future of 3D printing shaping up? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured Image shows 3D printing consortium. Image via KeratOPrinter. Rodolfo Hernandez Rodolfo Hernández is a writer and technical specialist with a background in electronics engineering and a deep interest in additive manufacturing. Rodolfo is most interested in the science behind technologies and how they are integrated into society.

In this edition of SLICED, the 3D Printing Industry news digest, we compile the latest developments across the additive manufacturing (AM) sector, covering 3D printed luxury components in automotive design, orthopedic device recognition, flame-retardant micro-printing materials, and software upgrades for toolmaking automation. In today’s digest, updates span hardware distribution, resin system reselling, education initiatives, and powder-handling integration in metal 3D printing environments. Read on for detailed reports from industry leaders such as Bentley, Make48, Axtra3D, GoEngineer, Boston Micro Fabrication, and more. Bentley Integrates 3D Printed Rose Gold in the Batur Kicking off, luxury carmaker Bentley Motors has unveiled its limited-run Batur grand tourer, The Black Rose, which features interior components produced by 3D printing using 18-karat recycled rose gold. Developed by Bentley’s bespoke division, Mulliner, in collaboration with precious metal supplier Cooksongold, the production process integrates up to 210 grams of printed gold into key elements such as the Drive Mode Selector, air vent controls, and a steering wheel insert. Each component is hallmarked in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, with qualifying parts also bearing the Jubilee hallmark commemorating Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. Complementing this novel development, Bentley’s design pairs the lustrous gold accents with a dark interior palette of Beluga leather, charcoal tweed, and metallic-coated veneer panels. The bespoke treatment extends to exterior accents on the grille and mirror caps. Produced at Bentley’s Crewe facility and bolstered by a £3 million investment in AM capacity since 2022, this model signals a strategic fusion of sustainable material sourcing with time-honored luxury craftsmanship. Bentley’s new 3D printed rose gold details in the Batur. Photo via Bentley Motors. Make48 Expands Hands-On STEM Programs to 128 U.S. Schools In the education sector, the Make48 Innovation Experience is expanding its reach to 128 U.S. schools in 2025, bringing real-world product development challenges directly into the classroom. Derived from the Make48 invention series aired on PBS and Roku’s This Old House Makers Channel, the program tasks student teams aged 14 to 22 with designing, prototyping, and pitching innovative ideas under tight deadlines. Industry mentors provide practical guidance that bridges classroom theory with the demands of entrepreneurial problem-solving. The initiative is being integrated into semester-long courses, afterschool programs, and special project weeks across various states. Director Brett Kisker explained, “Students thrive when given the opportunity to solve real-world problems in an engaging, hands-on way.” The program is designed to align with U.S. STEM standards and offers a scalable model that equips students with practical innovation skills. Resellers and Distribution Deals by Axtra 3D, GoEngineer, and Evonik Turning to distribution deals, Axtra3D, a manufacturer of high-speed stereolithography (SLA) systems, has named Solid Technologies, a U.S.-based systems integrator with over 20 years of experience in resin printing, as its premium reseller for the high-speed Lumia HPS system, a platform that merges SLA and Digital Light Processing (DLP) methods to accelerate production without sacrificing surface quality, enabling manufacturers to overcome longstanding challenges in resin-based 3D printing. Solid Technologies will also provide integration services and post-sales support to help manufacturers transition from prototyping to serial production. This collaboration aims to expand Axtra3D’s market reach in sectors such as dental, aerospace, and consumer products by enabling production-grade photopolymer solutions. Separately, GoEngineer, a provider of engineering technologies and services, has become the official North American distributor for Chinese metal additive manufacturing company Bright Laser Technologies (BLT), offering localized access to a diverse portfolio of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) systems. Covering the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this partnership delivers metal 3D printers, post-processing equipment, and proprietary powders that enable complex design optimization. CEO Ken Coburn explains that BLT’s technology offers a transformative glimpse into the future of advanced manufacturing, while GoEngineer’s comprehensive service—including technical training and equipment consultation—ensures seamless integration into industrial production environments. GoEngineer now offers Bright Laser Technologies’ (BLT) LPBF 3D printers across North America. Image via GoEngineer. In addition, German chemicals company Evonik has entered a distribution agreement with 3DChimera, a Miami-based provider of 3D printing hardware, materials, and engineering support, to offer its INFINAM polyamide powders to U.S. customers. The deal covers several advanced formulations designed for improved flexibility, stiffness, and temperature resistance in Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) processes, catering to industrial powder bed fusion applications. Jeffery Beach, Director of Evonik’s Long Chain Polyamides team for the Americas, noted that this partnership is part of a broader strategy to expand the company’s material footprint in North America. Meanwhile, 3DChimera CEO  Alex Hussain emphasized that the collaboration enhances their product portfolio and technical support capabilities, ensuring customers receive optimized solutions for polymer-based 3D printing. Boston Micro Fabrication and ELIX Expand Functional Material Offerings Shifting focus to materials, Microscale 3D printer manufacturer Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF) has introduced FR resin, a flame retardant photopolymer engineered for micro 3D printing in high-temperature environments. The resin achieves a UL94 V-0 rating at 2.0 mm thickness and maintains a heat deflection temperature of 160°C, ensuring both safety and mechanical integrity for applications in aerospace, consumer electronics, and micromechanics. Offered in both Transparent Yellow and Black, FR resin streamlines production by eliminating preheating requirements and reducing post-processing time. This development meets the growing industrial need for specialized, high-resolution materials that balance fire safety with precise dimensional control. Boston Micro Fabrication unveils FR resin for flame-retardant micro 3D printing. Photo via Boston Micro Fabrication. Separately, Spanish manufacturer of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) ELIX Polymers has developed its E-LOOP CR series of recycled ABS resins using certified circular feedstocks. In collaboration with Repsol and AnQore, the new formulation integrates fossil-derived, chemically recycled, and renewable bio-circular inputs, ensuring both sustainability and robust material performance.  The products are certified under the ISCC Plus system, which supports sustainable manufacturing without compromising the material’s performance characteristics, reinforcing long-term supply chain sustainability.  Anker Innovations and German Machine Tool Builders’ Association In business news, Mobile charging and consumer electronics specialist Anker Innovations has rebranded its 3D printing division from AnkerMake to eufyMake, integrating its AM operations into its broader smart home ecosystem. Effective March 24, the rebranding reflects a strategic effort to merge cutting-edge 3D printing capabilities with consumer electronics while continuing robust product support. Frank Zhu, General Manager of eufy, emphasized that the change empowers makers by bridging traditional 3D printing with smart home connectivity. This rebranding not only signals a fresh market focus but also preserves the core identity and service commitments of the original AnkerMake products. The move is part of Anker’s broader strategy to unify its portfolio under a cohesive brand while fostering innovation across distinct product lines. Meanwhile, German machine tool orders have dropped by 19% in 2024, as reported by the German Machine Tool Builders’ Association. This decline, driven by geopolitical instability and reduced export demand—export orders fell by 24%—reflects a global slowdown in capital investment affecting the manufacturing sector. The fourth quarter experienced declines of 7% for domestic orders and 6% for international orders, with export demand dropping 24% over the year. Dr. Markus Heering, Executive Director of the VDW, stated, “The situation remains challenging for our industry,” noting that reduced investment and supply chain uncertainties have driven the contraction. Heering also mentioned that while some sectors saw gains, overall production output is expected to decline further in 2025. German machine tool orders drop 19% in 2024, led by declining exports. Image via VDW. Plansee SE Adopts the Hammer Evo35 for Refractory Metal Printing Turning to applications, Austrian refractory metal specialist Plansee SE has integrated the Hammer Evo35 system from engineering firm and OEM Incus GmbH to boost its capability in 3D printing refractory metals such as tungsten and molybdenum. The Hammer Evo35, an evolution of Lithography-based Metal Manufacturing technology, enables high-resolution production of complex components and overcomes challenges related to the density and brittleness of refractory materials. Dr. Gerald Mitteramskogler of Incus and Dr. Dirk Handtrack of Plansee SE both emphasize that the new system significantly expands Plansee’s technical capacity, positioning the company to meet critical demands in aerospace, electronics, and energy. This integration marks a pivotal advance in the efficient fabrication of high-performance components using additive manufacturing. Formula 1 Team Renews Ties with Roboze Next on partnerships, the Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team has renewed its partnership with Italian 3D printing manufacturer Roboze to further integrate advanced AM into its operations. In the initial phase, Roboze supplied components made from Carbon PEEK and Carbon PA PRO that reduced lead times and manufacturing costs while delivering exceptional performance under extreme conditions Peter Bayer, CEO of the racing team, stated, “The integration of Roboze’s technology has transformed our component production.” Roboze CEO Alessio Lorusso described the renewal as “a strong vote of confidence” in their advanced polymer solutions for high-performance applications. Visa Cash App RB Formula 1 Team renews partnership with Roboze. Photo via Roboze. Mantle Releases Update to Enhance Toolmaking Efficiency Turning to software, 3D printing and CNC machining developer Mantle has issued a software update for its automated toolmaking system to boost production throughput by up to 20%. The update improves the surface finish of downfacing features, reducing manual post-processing requirements, and received positive feedback from Michigan-based company Elite Mold & Engineering, who reported significantly reduced reliance on sinker EDM machines, leading to faster production of precision components. Additional enhancements include improved data management, tool orientation reuse, and collision avoidance features. These technical upgrades enable a more streamlined fabrication process and support manufacturers in addressing labor shortages while increasing overall operational efficiency. RYSE 3D, Stratasys, and Orthopedic Firms Recognized for Leadership and Innovation In awards news, Mitchell Barnes, founder of RYSE 3D, has been named Leader of the Year at TheBusinessDesk.com’s West Midlands Leadership Awards. At 28, Barnes transformed RYSE 3D from a garage startup into a key supplier for 23 hypercar development programs, with sales now exceeding £5 million. The award recognizes his strategic innovation and the development of the LANDR 3D printer, which has dramatically scaled production capacity at his Warwickshire facility. His team’s development of the LANDR 3D printer has enabled the production of thousands of parts monthly, demonstrating rapid scale-up in manufacturing capacity. Mitchell Barnes, Leader of the Year, stands at the forefront of RYSE 3D’s breakthrough with the LANDR 3D printer. Photo via RYSE 3D. Separately, Stratasys, a company specializing in polymer-based additive manufacturing solutions, has been honored by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2025. This accolade celebrates Stratasys’ comprehensive portfolio, which spans high-throughput systems like the F3300 and cost-effective solutions such as the Origin Two, as well as software tools like GrabCAD Print Pro that enhance workflow efficiency.  Dr. Yoav Zeif attributed the company’s progress to its collaborative development model. “Innovation at Stratasys is driven by the creativity of our teams combined with the ambition and endless ingenuity of our customers, who are reimagining what is possible for production with additive manufacturing.” On the medical front, the inaugural OMTEC Awards have recognized key innovations in orthopedic manufacturing. Foundation Surgical, a company focused on motion preservation systems for spine surgery, received the Groundbreaking Device Design award for its Vertiwedge Intraosseous Device. The implant uses additive manufacturing, featuring a biomimetic lattice structure for improved load distribution and osseointegration. “This recognition is a testament to the relentless dedication, creativity, and passion of our entire team,” said Randal Betz, M.D., Founder and CEO of Foundation Surgical. Betz emphasized the company’s objective to transform outcomes in spinal fusion and motion preservation. Additionally, Enovis, a medical technology firm with a growing focus on orthopedic devices, earned the Bold Leadership Award for its strategic expansion in joint reconstruction. Through its 2024 acquisitions of European implant manufacturers LimaCorporate and Mathys, Enovis expanded its portfolio and increased reconstructive sales to over $1 billion.  Meanwhile, J&J MedTech, the medical technology division of Johnson & Johnson, was recognized as Next-Gen Innovator for its VELYS Spine Active Robotic Assistance Platform, which integrates real-time feedback and modular workflows to improve surgical precision. The system was developed in response to the limitations of first-generation spinal robotic tools, offering greater intraoperative flexibility and improved usability. Volkmann Unveils EOS Edition vLoader 250 for Metal Powder Handling Finally, Pennsilvanian pneumatic vacuum conveying system manufacturer Volkmann USA has launched the EOS Edition vLoader 250, a powder conveyor system designed to automate the transfer of metal powders into EOS metal 3D printers. Developed in collaboration with EOS GmbH and Volkmann GmbH, the vLoader 250 employs a vacuum-based process that eliminates manual handling while ensuring continuous, efficient powder feeding. This system is tailored for integration with EOS’s M 400 series and can operate in either a sealed, closed-loop configuration or as a standalone unit. In addition, Volkmann offers a standard version compatible with other 3D printer platforms, alongside supplementary equipment for vacuum drying, depowdering, and sieving. These integrated solutions support a broad range of additive manufacturing workflows. Your browser does not support the video tag. Ready to discover who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights. Featured image shows Bentley’s new 3D printed rose gold details in the Batur. Photo via Bentley Motors. Anyer Tenorio Lara Anyer Tenorio Lara is an emerging tech journalist passionate about uncovering the latest advances in technology and innovation. With a sharp eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Anyer has quickly made a name for himself in the tech community. Anyer's articles aim to make complex subjects accessible and engaging for a broad audience. In addition to his writing, Anyer enjoys participating in industry events and discussions, eager to learn and share knowledge in the dynamic world of technology.

3D printer manufacturer Raise3D has marked its tenth anniversary by launching two new 3D printers at RAPID + TCT 2025 in Detroit, taking place from April 8-10.  The company introduced the RMS220, its first Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printer, and the DF2+, an enhanced Digital Light Processing (DLP) resin system that builds on its predecessor, the DF2. Both systems aim to meet the growing demand for reliable, end-to-end AM workflows that support a range of production needs. Raise3D CEO Edward Feng said, “To meet these needs, Raise3D takes a full-process approach—from deep integration of software, hardware, and materials to a comprehensive ecosystem spanning FFF, DLP, and SLS technologies. We focus on balancing performance, cost, and efficiency to drive innovation and ease production challenges.” Both systems have been validated for use in custom jigs, functional prototypes, and low-volume parts. The DF2+ is expected to begin shipping in the second quarter (Q2) 2025, with the RMS220 following in Q4 for the US and Europe. During the RAPID + TCT event, Raise3D is offering live demonstrations, application overviews, and sample part displays at Booth 3025. 3D printed part made with DF2+. Photo via Würth Additive Group. Key benefits of the RMS220 SLS 3D printer According to the manufacturer, the RMS220 serves as Raise3D’s first production-oriented SLS system, developed to accommodate batch manufacturing requirements. It offers up to 5 kgs of daily 3D printed output using PA12, supported by a 220 × 220 × 350 mm build volume. For users needing fast turnaround, the printer delivers a speed of up to 2.2 L/hr at 20% fill density.  Raise3D has equipped the system with a modular build chamber and a powder-change process that takes roughly 45 minutes, making it easier to switch between materials with minimal downtime. A high-performance 1064nm laser allows the use of a broad range of materials, including PA12, PA11, and TPU, while maintaining a low total cost of ownership by streamlining efficiency across hardware, consumables, and workflow. From a production standpoint, the RMS220 aims to deliver reliable results with precision. It supports a dimensional accuracy of ±0.2 mm and a minimum wall thickness of 0.5 mm when using PA11, which can be useful for detailed parts or functional prototypes.  A 75W laser and a four-zone, self-calibrating infrared heating system help maintain consistent material properties across batches. Designed with ease of use in mind, the system requires less training and upkeep, while its compact size reduces space demands in production environments. Expanded resin compatibility and digital inventory integration for DF2+ Raise3D’s latest DF2+ DLP 3D printer includes a high-power, longer-lasting light engine and a 20% print speed increment. The system is compatible with a wider range of high-performance resins and includes a post-processing workflow with radio-frequency identification (RFID) traceability to support a streamlined production loop. Material flexibility remains a central focus. Through its Open Material Program (OMP), Raise3D is working with partners such as Henkel and Forward AM to validate a growing list of resins. By Q2 2025, over 30 options are expected to be available, including ESD-safe, fire-retardant, high-temperature, medical-grade, flexible, clear, and high-impact materials. This expansion is intended to support applications across a wide range of industries. Additionally, Raise3D has partnered with Würth Additive Group, demonstrating a fully integrated system in Würth’s Digital Inventory Services (DIS) platform. Having showcased at AMUG 2025, the setup is described as the first 3D printer integration with encrypted digital part distribution and secure, on-demand manufacturing capabilities. This combination is aimed at enabling more scalable use of AM within industrial supply chains. Technical specifications and pricing of RMS220 SLS and DF2+ DLP 3D printer For more details about the 3D printers, contact or visit the Raise3D website. RMS220 SLS 3D printerTechnologySelective Laser Sintering (SLS)Build Volume220 × 220 × 350 mm (8.7 × 8.7 × 13.8 inch)Laser Type75 W fiber laser, wavelength 1064 nmPrinting Speed2.2L/h (packing density 20% by weight)Max Powder Temp.220°CHopper Size31.5 L, 40 L if extended with material boxMaximum Output5 kg/ Day**Using PA12 material and standard parameter settings, packaging density is 20% of weightLayer Height0.05 – 0.40 mmSupported MaterialsRaise3D PA12 Powder/ Raise3D PA11 Powder/ Raise3D TPU90A White Powder/ Raise3D TPU90A Powder/ Raise3D PA12 GB PowderSlicerideaMakerInput File FormatsSTL/ OBJ/ 3MF/ OLTP/ STEP/ STP/ IGES/ IGS DF2+ DLP 3D printerTechnologyDigital Light Printing (DLP)Build Size (W × D × H)200 × 112 × 300 mm (7.87 × 4.41 × 11.8 inch)Max Printing Speed100 mm/h (Using Draft Resin and 200 μm layer height on DF2+. Actual print time obtained by printing a set of test parts at room temperature: 24-26°C, humidity: less than 50%)General Printing Speed50-60 mm/h (Average of all Raise3D materials printed at 100 μm layer height. Print speed will vary depending on resin type, layer height and part geometry, etc.)XY Resolution2560 × 1440Layer Height50-200 micronLight Source DensityTwice the light source density of DF2Raise3D ResinsRaise3D Standard White Resin, Raise3D High Detail Apricot Resin, Raise3D Tough 2K Grey Resin, Raise3D Rigid 3K Grey Resin, Raise3D High Clear Resin, Raise3D Draft Grey ResinComing Soon: Raise3D Standard Black, Raise3D ESD, Raise3D High Temperature ResinOpen Material Program (OMP)LOCTITE 3D IND405, LOCTITE 3D PRO476, LOCTITE 3D 3843, LOCTITE 3D PRO410, LOCTITE 3D PRO417,  Ultracur3D RG 3280, Ultracur3D RG 1100 B, Ultracur3D EL 60, Ultracur3D EL 4000Coming Soon: LOCTITE 3D IND147, LOCTITE 3D 3843 White What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025? How is the future of 3D printing shaping up? To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook. While you’re here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays. Featured image shows 3D printed part made with DF2+. Photo via Würth Additive Group. Ada Shaikhnag With a background in journalism, Ada has a keen interest in frontier technology and its application in the wider world. Ada reports on aspects of 3D printing ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and dental.

Days after completing it’s Desktop Metal acquisition, Nano Dimension has appointed Ofir Baharav as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. His appointment follows his tenure as Chairman of Board of Directors (BoD), having been elected by activist shareholder Murchinson in December 2024. As Chairman, he has implemented several strategic changes aimed at enhancing the company’s operational efficiency and market competitiveness. Baharav brings nearly three decades of experience in capital equipment for the electronics industry and additive manufacturing. His previous leadership roles include CEO of Maxify, VP Products at Stratasys, CEO at Xjet, EVP Products at Credence Systems, and President at Optonics, reflect a consistent focus on transformation and technological innovation. As Nano Dimension continues to pursue profitability and shareholder value, Baharav’s expertise is expected to play a key role in guiding the company’s efforts. Having served as Interim CEO, Julien Lederman will continue as Nano Dimension’s Chief Business Officer (CBO). His responsibilities include post-merger integration, communications, investor relations, operational planning, and performance tracking. The leadership transition also involves the departure of Zivi Nedivi, President, and Tomer Pinchas, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Baharav has stepped down from the Board, with Robert Pons, assuming the role of Chairman, who previously served as a board member since December 2024. “Mr. Baharav’s proven ability to drive strategic change and operational efficiency is precisely what Nano Dimension needs at this critical juncture,” said Pons. “His deep industry expertise and leadership will be instrumental in navigating the integration, achieving rapid profitability, and delivering significant value to our shareholders.” David Stehlin, a Board Director added, “His combined expertise in electronics and additive manufacturing is uniquely suited to our strategic direction, ensuring we capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead.” Nano Dimension’s new CEO Ofir Baharav. Photo via Ofir Baharav/LinkedIn. Operational overhaul and strategic focus under Baharav’s leadership Following his appointment as Chairman, Baharav initiated a series of measures aimed at improving operations and governance. He has redirected research and development (R&D) efforts and sales towards high-value applications where the company aims to maintain long-term competitiveness.  Additionally, he implemented cost-cutting measures projected to save over $20 million annually by year-end, with further reductions anticipated from post-merger operational consolidation. Negotiations with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) successfully removed restrictions on post-merger cost reductions and synergy realization, enabling the company to pursue operational efficiencies.  Baharav also proposed amendments to the Articles of Association which is pending shareholder approval, and eliminated the poison pill mechanism to improve transparency and alignment with shareholder interests. As part of efforts to strengthen its market position, Nano Dimension reorganized field operations to enhance sales performance in the U.S. and China. To ensure greater accountability, Baharav established comprehensive performance metrics and reporting systems to support data-driven decision-making. His leadership is marked by efforts to streamline operations, reduce expenses, and focus on innovation in high-performance applications. In a statement, Baharav says, “It is a privilege to lead Nano Dimension in creating value for shareholders, working with a talented cohort of colleagues and partnering with industry leading customers.” Nano Dimension, which now includes Desktop Metal and has plans to acquire Markforged for $115 million, is restructuring to build a scalable digital manufacturing business focused on high-value applications and consistent financial performance. “I want to thank Mr. Lederman for his leadership during this time, and I look forward to working closely with him,” said the new CEO. What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025? How is the future of 3D printing shaping up? To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook. While you’re here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays. Featured image shows Nano Dimension’s new CEO Ofir Baharav. Photo via Ofir Baharav/LinkedIn.

Swedish software developer Hexagon has wrapped up its acquisition of the Geomagic software business from US-based 3D printer OEM 3D Systems in a deal worth $123 million.  With expected net proceeds of approximately $100 million, 3D Systems plans to strengthen its balance sheet and channel investments into growth and profitability initiatives. The US-based OEM will […]

Dutch 3D printing service provider Royal3D has introduced the ShearWater Aquatic Drone, a new prototype designed to tackle various challenges in maritime and heavy-duty applications.  Developed for maintenance and surveillance tasks, ShearWater brings together large format additive manufacturing (LFAM) and durable materials to deliver reliable performance even in demanding maritime environments. Made entirely from recycled and recyclable materials, the drone is intended to minimize environmental impact without compromising functionality. Its modular and parametric design allows companies to tailor the system to their specific needs, enhancing safety and productivity across various maritime environments. “What sets Royal3D apart is our ability to adapt advanced 3D printing technologies for industries like maritime and heavy-duty manufacturing, where the demands on strength and durability are unparalleled,” says Fulko Roos, Founder of Royal3D and maritime transportation company Royal Roos.  Additionally, the Rotterdam-based company is hosting an event for World Boating Day on May 24th and “we will be showing the drone printing to our participants.” The event is free of charge and interested readers can register or contact Royal3D. The ShearWater Aquatic Drone. Image via Royal3D. Precision-built for harsh maritime environments Built using specially developed thermoplastic polymers and PETG fiber-reinforced materials, the aquatic drone offers a combination of strength, stiffness, and impact resistance while remaining lightweight and watertight. Royal3D’s proprietary 3D printing process, which relies on InfraRed cameras to precisely control layer adhesion, is central to the drone’s structural integrity and performance. According to the company, the 3D printing process also integrates Royal3D’s IP knowledge, enhancing the drone’s durability and reliability. The ShearWater project, partially funded through the EU Crossroads initiative, combines AI-powered maritime solutions designed to improve safety and operational efficiency for people and wildlife during port inspections and other marine activities. Through participation in this project, Royal3D has been able to enhance its drone technology, specifically by boosting efficiency and using more sustainable materials. With more than a decade of experience in large-scale AM, Royal3D specializes in producing robust components such as transport cradles, structural elements, and customized industrial parts. Operating two of the largest 3D printers in Europe, the company continues to meet the demands of various sectors by delivering components suited to heavy-duty applications. Although “our expertise in urban design and architectural applications continues to deliver innovative solutions across diverse sectors,” Royal3D’s current focus on maritime and industrial manufacturing reflects broader efforts to enhance material efficiency and expand design capabilities. Meeting the increasing demand for reliable, customizable solutions within the maritime sector is a priority. The ShearWater Aquatic Drone (white). Image via Royal3D. 3D printed drones for maritime use As observed before, 3D printed drones have long been used for surveillance, vessel maintenance, and other potential maritime applications. Back in 2017, Sembcorp Marine (SM), in partnership with DNV GL, SIMTech, and NAMIC, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance maritime operations through drone-assisted inspections and digital twin technology.  DNV oversaw the deployment of drones programmed to assist surveyors with close-up inspections of ship structures, providing detailed data on vessel conditions and improving personnel safety in hazardous environments. Part of a broader effort to integrate drones with AM and digital twins, this initiative aimed to optimize ship designs and streamline maintenance processes at SM’s Tuas Boulevard Yard, supporting Singapore’s Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering strategy. A year before that, the British Royal Navy launched a 3D printed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) called SULSA from the HMS Protector to aid ice patrol navigation in the Antarctic.  Built by the University of Southampton using laser sintering technology, SULSA provided aerial surveillance by relaying images from above, demonstrating effective maritime patrol capabilities with potential applications in weapon targeting and communication. This approach aligned with broader efforts to integrate 3D printed drones for various maritime operations, including inspection, maintenance, and data collection. What 3D printing trends should you watch out for in 2025? How is the future of 3D printing shaping up? To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook. While you’re here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays. Featured image shows the ShearWater Aquatic Drone. Image via Royal3D.

Equispheres, Canadian supplier of specialized aluminum powders, and Fieldmade, a developer of mobile 3D printing systems, have partnered to expand access to laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) in environments where traditional manufacturing infrastructure is limited or unavailable. The collaboration aims to facilitate on-demand production of aluminum components in the field. The initiative centers on Fieldmade’s NOMAD®03 micro factory—a portable, deployable additive manufacturing system—that has been adapted to produce aluminum components using Equispheres’ NExP-1 non-explosive aluminum powder. With adjustable processing parameters, NExP-1 enables fast build rates, consistent part quality, and reliable repeatability, reducing both the lead time and expense associated with delivering replacement parts. “There has always been demand for aluminum parts in the field. By collaborating with Equispheres, we are now able to meet that demand,” says Svein A. Hjelmtveit, Chief Technology Officer at Fieldmade. “Equispheres NExP-1 non-explosive powder simplifies the transport and operation of the NOMAD 03 system while optimizing performance, giving customers portability, speed and superior quality without the need for specialized handling, storage or extensive post-processing.” Fieldmade’s NOMAD®️03 micro factory. Photo via: Equispheres Commercialization Timeline and Technical Overview The NOMAD 03 system, integrated with Equispheres’ NExP-1 aluminum powder, is in the final phase of verification testing and is expected to be commercially available by mid-2025. NExP-1 is produced in North America using Equispheres’ proprietary manufacturing process.  Certified as dust-free and non-explosible under ASTM E1226—the Standard Test Method for Explosibility of Dust Clouds—NExP-1 features an optimized AlSi10Mg composition. The powder supports high layer thickness processing and stable melt pool dynamics, contributing to efficient printing and robust mechanical properties in finished parts. “The NOMAD 03 system is a game-changer for any remote operating environment that requires a rapid supply of spare parts. Instead of waiting for weeks for replacements to arrive, aluminum parts can be produced onsite in a few hours, often at a lower cost, using technologies that aren’t currently accessible for remote operations,” says Sascha Rudolph, Chief Operating Officer at Equispheres. “We’re excited to collaborate with Fieldmade in breaking down the barriers for Additive Manufacturing while opening up a whole new landscape for the industry.” Prototypes 3D printed from Equispheres’ NExP-1 material. Photo via Equispheres. Potential for 3D Printing Aluminium This collaboration reflects a broader trend in aluminum additive manufacturing aimed at improving material performance and system accessibility. Australian 3D printer manufacturer AML3D extended its $280,000 USD ($370,000 AUD) contract with BlueForge Alliance for Nickel-Aluminium-Bronze (NAB) alloy testing, supporting the US Navy’s submarine program. The extension validates AML3D’s ARCEMY 3D printed alloys against Navy standards. Aligned with AML3D’s US expansion strategy amid AUKUS alliance interest, this effort integrates ARCEMY technology into the US military. It also involves the sale of a large-scale ARCEMY 3D printing system, currently housed at Tennessee’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, valued at approximately $1.0 million AUD. Aluminium Materials Technologies (AMT) also collaborated with the University of Birmingham to explore the metallurgy of 3D printed aluminum alloy, dubbed A20X. Focusing on laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and direct energy deposition (DED) techniques, the partnership investigated compositional changes, heat treatments, and additive manufacturing process parameters. A20X, known for its isotropic properties, is a high-strength aluminum-copper alloy extensively used in aerospace and motorsports.  Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows Fieldmade’s NOMAD®️03 micro factory. Photo via: Equispheres Paloma Duran Paloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future.

Austrian food technology company Revo Foods has introduced EL BLANCO, a plant-based seafood product designed to replicate the texture and appearance of black cod. The product is made using 3D extrusion and combines mycoprotein, a fermented fungi protein, with microalgae oils. It is intended to offer a high-fiber, Omega-3-containing option in a fillet-style format. EL BLANCO is available through several retailers in Europe, including BILLA AG stores (Billa Plus and Billa Pflanzilla), gurkerl.at, knuspr.de, and Revo Foods’ online store, which delivers to various countries across Europe. Revo Foods’ EL BLANCO. Photo via: Revo Foods Nutritional Composition and Production Process The primary ingredient, mycoprotein, is a fungi-derived protein known for its rapid growth rate and ability to double in biomass within five hours. It contains all essential amino acids, is high in dietary fiber, and has low levels of saturated fat and carbohydrates. While naturally neutral in flavor, its texture is enhanced through Revo Foods’ 3D extrusion process. The company added that compared to THE FILET (its salmon alternative), EL BLANCO features a softer and more tender texture. The product is manufactured at The Taste Factory, Revo’s production facility, using a high-throughput 3D extrusion system. This system structures the mycoprotein into aligned fibers and incorporates fats into the protein matrix, resulting in a layered, flaky texture similar to that of fish fillets. “Compared to other methods, we do not need lots of processing. Basically, we simply make mycoprotein smaller in a mixer and then feed it directly to our 3D extrusion system, which works at low temperature and pressure, preserving more of the good nutrients,” the company explained on LinkedIn. “Speaking of processing, this is about as gentle as it gets.” Revo Foods’ EL BLANCO. Photo via: Revo Foods Use of 3D Printing in Plant-Based Protein Development Revo Foods is one of several companies applying 3D printing technologies to the development of alternative proteins. Redefine Meat, for example, launched its first 3D printed vegan meat, Alt-Steak, in 2020. The plant-based steak is produced using proprietary food printers and consists of components developed by the company called Alt-Muscle, Alt-Fat, and Alt-Blood. According to the company, the product is significantly more sustainable than conventional steak. In 2021, Redefine Meat introduced a wider range of 3D printed products for the food service sector in Israel. These include plant-based burgers, sausages, lamb kebabs, and ground meat. The offerings were used in professional kitchens and received feedback from chefs including Marco Pierre White and Ron Blaauw. Another example is SavorEat, a company based in Rehovot, Israel, which produces kosher, vegan, and gluten-free meat alternatives using 3D printing. Its product lineup includes pork-style patties as well as plant-based turkey and beef burgers. According to co-founder and chief executive officer Racheli Vizman, the products were developed for distribution in the United States. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content. Featured image shows Revo Foods’ EL BLANCO. Photo via: Revo Foods. Paloma Duran Paloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future.

Stratasys has expanded its aerospace and defense 3D printing capabilities with the introduction of AIS Antero 800NA and AIS Antero 840CN03 as validated materials for its F900 platform. These materials were rigorously validated through strategic collaborations, including Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Blue Origin, BAE Systems, U.S. Air Force, NAVAIR, NIAR, Stratasys Direct ManufacturingEngineered for mission-critical applications, the new AIS Antero materials are designed to meet the stringent performance standards required by high-reliability sectors. By leveraging NCAMP (National Center for Advanced Materials Performance) equivalency, Stratasys provides a streamlined and scalable approach to process and material qualification, reducing both time and costs typically associated with adopting additive manufacturing in regulated environments.The ongoing development and qualification of these advanced Stratasys additive manufacturing materials are game-changers for aerospace and defense manufacturers, empowering them to adopt 3D printing with confidence for mission-critical applications, stated Ryan Martin, Senior Research Director at ABI Research.Stratasys will showcase the AIS Antero material suite at the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs from April 710, 2025.Stratasys team at AMUG 2025. Photo via: Stratasys AIS Antero 800NA and 840CN03: High-Performance MaterialsAIS Antero 800NA and AIS Antero 840CN03 are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals, offering greater design flexibility. In addition to ensure reliable, high-performance results, these materials simplify the qualification process with extensive support resources, including detailed documentation, training programs, and advanced tools for optimal process control. Furthermore, they reduce costs by minimizing the need for costly in-house testing and qualification.By combining industry-leading performance with a robust qualification framework, were enabling manufacturers to innovate more rapidly and confidently deploy 3D printing for qualified end-use applications across multiple locations, said Foster Ferguson, Vice President of the Industrial Business Unit at Stratasys.Stratasys AIS Antero 800NA and AIS Antero 840CN03. Photo via: Stratasys.Business Report: StratasysStratasys (NASDAQ: SYSS) recently announced its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024 (Q4 2024) and full year 2024 (FY 2024). For FY 2024, Stratasys reported revenue of $572.5 million, an 8.8% decrease from $627.6 million in FY 2023. Q4 2024 revenue reached $150.4 million, down 3.8% from the same period in 2023 but up 7.4% sequentially from Q3.Despite the impact of macroeconomic challenges and constrained capital spending, Stratasys maintained strong customer engagement and saw a rise in manufacturing applications, which accounted for 36% of total revenueup from 34% in 2023.Stratasys focus on high-value applications, particularly in the industrial and healthcare sectors, provided resilience during a challenging year. A key highlight was its expanding role in manufacturing, notably with ArcelorMittal, one of the worlds largest steel manufacturers, adopted Stratasys FDM technology and GrabCAD software at its European Research Center, enabling faster tooling production.In motorsports, Stratasys became the official 3D printing partner of NASCAR through a multi-year agreement, for the design and production of parts and tools across its operations, fully replacing previous systems used alongside Stratasys solutions.Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards?Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image showsStratasys AIS Antero 800NA and AIS Antero 840CN03. Photo via: Stratasys.Paloma DuranPaloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future.

In this article, the 3D Printing Industry engineering team reviews the Peel 3, the latest 3D scanner from Creaform subsidiary Peel 3D. This handheld device offers professional scanning at an affordable price tag, making it ideal for both entry-level and industrial users.Creaform, a leading manufacturer of 3D scanning equipment with over 20 years of industry experience, launched Peel 3D alongside American electronics manufacturer AMETEK. The brand entered the market in 2017 to diversify the 3D scanning landscape and lower the barrier of entry for high-performance metrology.Peel 3D launched the Peel 3 scanner in 2022 following previous Peel 1, Peel 2, and 2-S iterations. The latest professional-grade system is well suited to reverse engineering, AR, VR, and healthcare applications. Peel 3D has since introduced a new Peel 3 Pro.CAD bundle that includes the 3D scanner and Peel.CAD Pro reverse engineering software for $8,990.The 3D scanner stands out for its low individual starting price of just $5,990. Given that most high-end industrial devices exceed the $15,000 range, the Peel 3 is perfectly poised to address the needs of those requiring budget-friendly, high-quality 3D scanning.Introducing the Peel 3: high-quality 3D scanning made easyThe Peel 3 utilizes structured light technology with white LEDs and infrared light sources. Its three cameras, two of which are dedicated to geometry and surface capture, facilitate full-color 3D scanning and texture mapping.Peel 3Ds offering delivers up to 0.050 mm accuracy and resolution within a 340 x 475 mm scanning area. With a scanning rate of 1,250,000 measurements per second, the device ensures highly efficient operation for objects measuring between 10 cm and 3.0 m. Additionally, its dedicated Human Body mode allows users to 3D scan people.A stand-out feature of the Peel 3 is its haptic feedback technology, advertised as the industrys first haptic user communication system for a handheld 3D scanner. The technology emits distinctive vibration patterns when scanning narrow and hard-to-reach areas. This alerts the user if the scanner has lost tracking or is too far from the object, enabling quicker positioning adjustments to maximize accuracy.AI tracking is also integrated into the Peel 3. As such, tracking dots are not essential for most shapes, but are needed when capturing large flat objects with no distinct features. In keeping with most 3D scanners, it faces challenges when capturing transparent and shiny materials where there is no clearly defined surface from which the light can reflect.The Peel 3 is made even more user-friendly by its color-coded touchscreen user interface, which guides the operator to the optimal 3D scanning distance. This allows users to perform accurate 3D scanning without looking at a computer screen. Touchscreen displays are rare in the 3D scanner market, helping the Peel 3 further differentiate from the competition.The Peel 3 scanner and accessories. Photo by 3D Printing Industry.A lightweight device for on-the-go 3D scanningThe Peel 3 is a lightweight device with a revamped ergonomic handle design. This makes the 3D scanner easy to hold and maneuver. Measuring just 304 x 150 x 79 mm and weighing 950g, it is portable and ideal for on-the-go 3D scanning.Our model came with a watertight, crush-resistant, and dustproof 3D scanner case, available for $380. A Peel protection kit can also be purchased for $215. This includes a silicone sleeve, hardened glass screen protector, clip-on lens cover, and custom cable winder.Hands-on with Peel.OS and Peel.CAD softwarePeel 3D offers its proprietary data acquisition software, Peel.OS, free of charge with the Peel 3. This allows users to calibrate the device and process, clean, align, improve, colorize, and export 3D scanning data.Peel.OS offers a straightforward and well-guided workflow. The UI is elegant and thoughtfully structured, allowing 3D scanning newcomers to navigate the software with ease.Before scanning, users must define the key parameters of the target object, including size, detail level, output quality, and full-color features. This optimizes the capabilities of the scanner, ensuring the desired output quality is met. Advanced users can also set custom parameters for more specific requirements.Peel.OS user interface. Images by 3D Printing Industry. Peel 3D also offers Peel.CAD, a dedicated reverse engineering software for the Peel 3 scanner. Peel.CAD features a wider range of post-processing tools and capabilities for professionals requiring advanced reverse engineering capabilities.The software can be used to convert scanned mesh data, which consists of triangular facets, into geometric CAD entities like plane cuts, surface area cuts, and cylindrical features. This data can be seamlessly transferred directly to popular CAD software like SolidWorks, Inventor, Solid Edge, and Fusion 360, streamlining design and reverse engineering processes.Peel.CAD provides powerful tools to refine and enhance damaged or incomplete 3D scans. You can fill holes, smooth rough areas, and edit boundaries with ease. The software also enables the merging of multiple scans to create more complete and accurate models. Additionally, cross-sections can be generated by slicing mesh data. If you encounter any issues, the Contextual Help feature within the user interface offers straightforward, step-by-step guidance.The software is less intuitive than Peel.OS, reflecting its focus on more industrial applications. Peel.CAD can be purchased with the Peel 3 for $8,990.Peel.CAD software user interface. Images by 3D Printing Industry. How to calibrate the Peel 3 scannerSetting up the Peel 3 is straightforward and shouldnt challenge less experienced operators. After installing the software, the 3D scanner was connected to a power source and our computer using the included cables. In a matter of minutes, the Peel 3 was up and running.Calibration must be completed when first operating the 3D scanner and at least once a week. It is recommended that the Peel 3 be calibrated for each day of 3D scanning. Calibration considers temperature variations and pressure, matching the operating conditions to ensure the device can receive optimal metrology data.To calibrate the Peel 3, users need to move the scanner to 15 positions on the included calibration plate. This process is straightforward and intuitive. However, the orientation of the plate can be slightly confusing when calibrating for the first time. Adding orientation arrows would overcome this, ensuring the 3D scanner is calibrated correctly.Peel 3 calibration plate and user interface. Photo and image by 3D Printing Industry. Benchmarking the Peel 3 scannerDoes the Peel 3 live up to its advertised capabilities? To find out, we scanned our in-house benchmarking tile. This part features various geometric shapes, surface textures, and colors that often pose challenges for 3D scanners. We completed three successful scans in 30 minutes. After merging this data in Peel.OS, we achieved mostly impressive results.Most of the scanned geometries on the front of the tile came out well, although some issues were encountered. The overhanging 3 character came out well after conducting some minor post-processing steps. Despite failing to capture the entire surface below the number, we were largely impressed by the 3D scanners performance.However, the Peel 3 struggled to capture the inner walls of the D character, resulting in some defects. Mesh gaps were present on the inside corners of the steps, along with small spikes and bulging on the deepest section of the indented shape. We also encountered issues with the I character, with the scanner unable to capture all of the data at the deepest point of this section, leaving several gaps across the bottom. This was surprising given the basic geometry of the shape.3DPI tile scan results. Photos and images by 3D Printing IndustrySmall 3D Printing Industry text is located on the side of the tile, offering a good chance to assess how the Peel 3 handles small features. Peel 3Ds scanner performed excellently here, the text was clear with no visual defects.3D Printing Industry text scan. Image by 3D Printing Industry.We next assessed how the Peel 3 handled different material textures. It unfortunately struggled with carpet and fabric surfaces. Protruding fibers introduced noise into the data, while details were significantly lacking for both sections.However, the 3D scanner performed much better when capturing sandpaper, creating a near-perfect representation of the real-life material. Similarly, scans of the tire and sponge surfaces impressed our team. The unique and challenging geometries of these surfaces were captured with aplomb, recreating key details with a high level of accuracy.While issues were encountered with the reflective and translucent materials, this is a common limitation of most 3D scanners on the market. Reflective surfaces deflect light away from the scanners sensors, while clear objects dont provide a solid basis for accurate light reflections.Materials section of the 3DPI tile: real-life model and scan result. Photo and image by 3D Printing Industry.For the underside of the tile, issues were encountered with the square snake and screw thread sections, with the latter achieving a score of just 1/5. Despite spending extra time scanning this area, we observed little improvement, suggesting that the Peel 3 struggles when capturing very fine details. The square snake section was also below our expectations, with mesh anomalies forming at the more narrow sections. Scanning the underside of the I sections also posed problems. This indicates that the Peel 3 struggles with sharp points that reflect minimal light.Despite these shortcomings, the 3D scanner performed well for the remaining surface geometries. The thickness grade test was passed with flying colors, accurately representing all 10 digits with no issues. The hole matrix also came out well. Eight of the ten holes were perfect, with slight issues only encountered with the smallest 1.5 mm and 0.6 mm diameters.3D scan results of the underside of the 3DPI tile. Image by 3D Printing Industry.Testing 3D scanner applicationsWe next conducted a range of application tests to assess real-world use cases of the Peel 3, ranging from hobbyist projects to reverse engineering.First, we conducted a 3D scan of a bicycle fork assembly. After several unsuccessful attempts, we determined that scanning spray and tracking dots were needed to capture the chrome and glossy black finish. Once applied, the Peel 3 achieved impressive results, with Peel.OS excelling in this application. It allowed us to remove all tracking dots, background mesh data, and imperfections. Although our initial scan had a few holes in the mesh, the fill-hole tool seamlessly resolved them.Fork object and scan result. Photos and images by 3D Printing Industry.Next, we tasked the Peel 3 with scanning a motorcycle chain guard. Tracking dots and scanning spray were again needed to achieve optimal results. We also spent 1 hour and 20 minutes post-processing to improve the scan, which initially contained noise particles created by ambient light.The Peel 3 struggled to identify tracking dots when switching from bright surface shutter to dark surface shutter, leading to lost tracking. This resulted in a tedious process that could frustrate advanced users and dissuade newcomers.Chain guard object and scan result. Photo and images via 3D Printing Industry.A broken motorcycle clutch basket containing metal and plastic parts with varying surface textures was also scanned. This provided a good opportunity to assess the Peel 3s ability to capture complex geometries with multiple materials.Overall, we were pleased with the results of this scan. After 2 hours and 30 minutes of post-processing on Peel.OS, the final results accurately resembled the real-life part. This highlights the value of the 3D scanner for creating digital twins of industrial components, removing the need for physical inventories.Clutch basket object and scan result. Photos and images by 3D Printing Industry.We next completed a 3D scan of a motorcycles full exhaust system. This offers an opportunity to assess the Peel 3s ability to capture large-scale parts. To capture all angles of the exhaust, we suspended the object from the ceiling using nylon fishing wire. Consequently, the entire scan could be completed in a single step.Exhaust system scan setup. Photo by 3D Printing Industry.The Peel 3 exceeded our expectations here. No tracking dots were needed and the scanner seamlessly maintained tracking throughout without defects. The setup was straightforward, and scanning took only 20 minutes. After post-processing, the quality of the final model is impressive.Motorcycle exhaust and scan result. Photos and images by 3D Printing Industry.Research and development is a core application of the Peel 3. To assess the 3D scanners value for aftermarket automotive parts, we conducted a 3D scan of a motorcycles front wheel and motor. We were impressed by the final result and were able to capture the key details after a 30-minute scan.Initially, we encountered tracking and data accuracy issues due to sunlight shining through a window, which the 3D scanners infrared light is susceptible to. The Peel 3s automatic shutter intensity feature identifies ambient lighting intensity and adjusts the emitted light to counteract this. Testing confirmed the effectiveness and value of this feature.Motorcycle front wheel and scan result. Photos and images by 3D Printing Industry.In reverse engineering applications, physical objects are converted into digital files. To assess how the Peel 3 handles this, we achieved an impressive scan of a motorcycle airbox snorkel. This was converted to a CAD file, transferred to Fusion 360, and 3D printed at 80% scale.Motorcycle snorkel object, scan result and 3D printed part. Photos and images by 3D Printing Industry.The ability to transfer geometrical and cross-section entities from Peel.CAD to other mainstream CAD software significantly streamlines the reverse engineering process. This allows engineers to quickly achieve geometrically accurate results without measuring the actual model.Cross-section geometrical cutouts transferred to Fusion 360. Images by 3D Printing Industry.How well does the Peel 3 scan complex geometries? To assess this, we scanned a turbo assembly off a Volkswagen Golf R. This part features small gaps, grooves, thin walls, fine details, and bore depths. Despite the reflective metallic surfaces, the Peel 3 successfully maintained tracking with help from scanning spray. The final scan results were impressive, capturing high-quality details of features such as lettering and mounting holes.The physical air inlet measured 56 mm, while the scanned result was 55.968 mm, a mere -0.032mm discrepancy. As such, the Peel 3 can achieve impressive geometrical measurement accuracy, making it suitable for professional applications demanding accurate 3D scanning.Turbo assembly and scan result. Photos and images by 3D Printing Industry.The ability to 3D scan people offers much potential for artistic, model-making, gaming, VR, and medical applications. The Peel 3 features a unique full-color, human-body mode. To test this, we created a human bust that was then 3D printed.Human 3D scan results. Images by 3D Printing Industry.This 3D scan was impressive, capturing details of clothing and skin while producing excellent color accuracy. One clear challenge was scanning hair. The Peel 3 would often lose tracking at this section, resulting in a large gap at the top of the head. We successfully corrected this using the fill feature and merging stray mesh data in Peel.OS.3D printed bust from the human 3D scan. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.High-performance 3D scanning at an affordable priceThe Peel 3 brings professional 3D scanning to the entry-level market. It combines an appealing price with high-quality performance, offering value for consumers and industrial users alike.Our team was particularly impressed by the Peel.OS software. This user-friendly and comprehensive platform provides the tools to achieve high-quality final mesh results. Despite its exhaustive features, we are confident most users can master the software after minimal experience.Additionally, the optional Peel.CAD software is an outstanding tool for reverse engineering. Its complex interface offers various processing tools, making it highly versatile and valuable for advanced users. Entities and planes can be created and exported to third-party CAD software, for a seamless and intuitive user experience. This data provides crucial information, like deviations and measurements, which can be manually adjusted to enhance precision and unlock greater customization. For users looking to take their reverse engineering skills to the next level, we believe the Peel 3.CAD offer is well worth its $8,990 price tag.Our extensive testing confirmed the Peel 3s ability to achieve high-quality 3D scanning results for various geometries and surface textures. It successfully created several impressive 3D models with minimal scanning time. Accurate resemblance was achieved for the broken clutch basket and motorcycle airbox, highlighting the 3D scanners value for those wanting to design automotive components and personalized bodywork.Digitizing inventory is another key 3D scanner use case. The accuracy and detail offered by the Peel 3 make it well-suited to the creation of digital twins. This is even true for highly complex geometries, with our Volkswagen Golf R turbo assembly scan perfectly capturing several intricate features. Large-scale parts pose no issues for the Peel 3. When suspended from the ceiling, our full-sized exhaust system was captured in just 20 minutes, providing an accurate and detailed life-like digital representation.Some issues were encountered when attempting to scan depths as shallow as 19 mm, which may have been caused by scanning spray interfering with surface quality. Black, reflective surfaces also caused problems. However, this is a common challenge for most 3D scanners. To counteract this, we recommend adding well-placed tracking dots. Although scanning spray should be avoided for small, indented sections, its appliance to shiny materials can greatly improve results for notoriously challenging surfaces.Ultimately, the Peel 3 stands out as one of the most comprehensive 3D scanners in its price class. It blends the high accuracy and access to the tools that professionals demand, with affordability and user-friendly operation. This makes it a compelling addition to the 3D scanner market.Technical specifications of the Peel 3 scannerSoftwarePeel.OS, Peel.CADRecommended object size0.1 3.0 m (0.3-10 ft)AccuracyUp to 0.050 mm (0.0020 in)Measurement Capabilitiespin: 1.5 mm (0.059 in)hole: 3.0 mm (0.118 in)step: 0.1 mm (0.0039 in)wall: 1.0 mm (0.039 in)Mesh resolution0.250 mm (0.01 in)Scanning area340 x 475mm (13.39 x 18.7 in)Scan speed80 sec/m2 (7.4 sec/ft2)Usage Distance (from object)250 to 550 mm (9.8 to 21.7 in)Depth of field300 mm (11.8 in)Scanner ControlsTouchscreenColor Resolution (on object)50 to 200 DPIPositioning methodsGeometry and/or targets and/or textureMeasurement rate1,250,000 measurements/sDimensions304 x 150 x 79 mm (12 x 5.9 x 3.2 in)Weight950 g (2.1 lb)ConnectivityUSB 3.0Output formats (Peel 3).dae, .fbx, .ma, .obj, .ply, .stl, .txt, .wrl, .x3d, .x3dz, .zpr, .dxf, .iges*, .step*Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on Twitter, like our Facebook page, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows Peel 3Ds Peel 3 scanner. Image via Peel 3D.

Renishaw, UK engineering technology company, has announced that its TEMPUS technology can reduce build times by up to 50% for users of its RenAM 500 series metal additive manufacturing (AM) systems. By utilizing advanced scanning algorithms to optimize layer sequencing, TEMPUS enhances productivity while maintaining part quality. While efficiency gains vary depending on geometry, components with thin, vertical features experience the most significant time savings.Renishaw showcased its TEMPUS solution at the Additive Manufacturing User Group (AMUG) Booth #P3 in Chicago from March 30 to April 3 and will also be RAPID + TCT Booth #1820 in Detroit from April 8-10.We are excited to introduce TEMPUS technology alongside the new RenAM 500 Ultra system, said Louise Callanan, Director of Additive Manufacturing at Renishaw. The time and cost savings offered by both TEMPUS and the RenAM 500 Ultra system will expand the viability of AM for mass production applications while also driving productivity gains for manufacturers seeking full-scale production at the lowest cost per part.Renishaw stressed that existing RenAM 500 series users can access TEMPUS technology as a paid upgrade, allowing them to maximize their investment. Additionally, the company highlighted its partnership with metal component specialist Alloyed, which has leveraged TEMPUS technology since 2021.Renishaws RenAM500Ultra. Photo via: RenishawTEMPUS Technology: Advancing AM ProductivityTraditional powder bed fusion systems require the recoater to distribute powder before laser consolidation can begin. However, TEMPUS synchronizes laser operation with recoater movement, eliminating up to nine seconds per layer and reducing total build times by tens of hours for multi-layer partsall while maintaining quality.In an interview with 3D Printing Industry, Chris Dimery, AM Business Manager EMEA at Renishaw, described TEMPUS as a time-saving technology and one of the companys largest developments in recent years. While typical cycle time reductions hover around 30%, some geometries can achieve up to 70% savings with TEMPUS.Reducing cost per part is critical to the wider adoption of AM technology. The dominant contributing factor to part cost for most components today is the time spent building the part on the machine itself. Reducing the amount of machine time per part therefore results in more cost-effective production, said Callanan.Renishaws TEMPUS. Photo via: RenishawIntroducing the RenAM 500 Ultra EnhancementsThe RenAM 500 Ultra enhances the RenAM 500 series with industry-leading optical, chamber, and gas-flow designs, as well as TEMPUS technology and advanced process monitoring software. Offering real-time build insights, it enables precise production control and in-process visibility. Designed for scalable, high-quality metal part production, the Ultra model allows manufacturers to meet evolving demands and produce complex geometries with ease.All RenAM 500 series systems, including the Ultra, are available in single-laser (500S) or quad-laser (500Q) configurations, ensuring efficient laser utilization, increased build speeds, and reduced cost per part. The Ultra model also features automated powder and waste handling systems, making it an ideal choice for high-volume production.Renishaws Collaborations with Its RenAM SolutionsIn March, Renishaw partnered with Cookson Industrial, a UK-based expert in precious metal AM, to reduce costs associated with 3D printing platinum-rhodium. By using Renishaws RenAM 500S Flex AM system, Cookson Industrial enhances material efficiency while producing high-temperature corrosion-resistant components, particularly beneficial for industries like glass fibre manufacturing.With platinum-rhodium prices averaging 80,000 per kilo, the company stressed that minimizing material waste is essential for economic feasibility. Cookson Industrial selected the RenAM 500S Flex, a laser powder bed fusion system optimized for R&D in AM, to address this challenge.In February, Connecticut-based Mott Corporation, a leader in high-precision filtration and flow control solutions, also expanded its manufacturing capabilities with the acquisition of a RenAM 500S Flex AM system. This integration has led to significant operational improvements, reducing machine turnaround and setup times by over 50% compared to previous AM technologies. Additionally, the system has improved part consistency, lowering the standard deviation of performance metrics by approximately 30%, enhancing reliability and performance in 3D printed components.Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards?Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image showsRenishaws TEMPUS. Photo via: RenishawPaloma DuranPaloma Duran holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Journalism. Specializing in writing, podcasting, and content and event creation, she works across politics, energy, mining, and technology. With a passion for global trends, Paloma is particularly interested in the impact of technology like 3D printing on shaping our future.

Researchers at the Florida A&M University-Florida State University (FAMU-FSU) College of Engineering have received a $5 million NASA grant to develop composite materials and manufacturing systems for future space missions.Administered by FAMU, the project involves collaboration with faculty members from FSU, the Goddard Space Flight Center, and FAMU. Led by Professor Subramanian Ramakrishnan from the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, the team featuring Richard Liang, Emily Pritchard, Satyanarayan Dev, and Margaret Samuels, is working on single-step systems that integrate sensing materials and electrodes to improve manufacturing efficiency and device quality.Imagine while on a space mission having the ability to print sensors, radiation shields or even functional tissues as the mission progresses, said Professor Subramanian Ramakrishnan from the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering. This capability could change the space exploration paradigm, making missions more sustainable and adaptable to unforeseen challenges.Jamel Ali, Ph.D., (L) and Subramanian Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., pose with the nScrypt 3D printer at the High-Performance Materials Institute (HPMI) of the Materials Research Building (MRB) at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in Tallahassee, Florida. Photo via FSU.Novel inks and printing techniques for space missionsFor this research, the team is working with a range of materials, including 2D materials known as MXenes, along with metallic and semiconducting nanoparticles. These inks are designed to be 3D printed into various components, from sensors and antennas to radiation shielding and flexible electronic circuits. The goal is to make it possible for astronauts to manufacture what they need as they go, without relying entirely on supplies sent from Earth.Theyre also exploring how to make use of materials found on other planets. By turning lunar and Martian soil, or regolith, into inks for 3D printing, the researchers hope to create functional structures directly on Mars or the Moon, reducing dependence on Earth-based resources and making long-term missions more sustainable.Part of their work involves refining a technique called electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing, which uses electric fields to precisely print nanoparticles. Combined with laser curing, the process is intended to speed up manufacturing, particularly for tasks aboard the International Space Station (ISS) where efficiency is critical.Beyond the NASA grant, Ramakrishnan is leading a separate project funded by a $700,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). This project focuses on expanding 3D printing capabilities through the acquisition of an nScrypt 6-axis 3D printing system at FAMU. The system is designed to produce complex structures on curved surfaces, which has potential applications in aerospace and medical devices.We are experimenting with innovative ink formulations and techniques, Ramakrishnan said. The equipment is helping us produce new and exciting next-generation sensors for NASA.A focus on medical applicationsAnother aspect of the research involves studying how human cells grow and interact in microgravity environments.Co-Director and Assistant Professor Jamel Ali from the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering is leading efforts to examine the behavior of 3D printed tissues in space, with the goal of enhancing therapeutic cell expansion and regenerative medicine. For this purpose, Alis research group is working with researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, who are working with NASAs Kennedy Space Center on related projects.Alis team is also developing semiconducting nanomaterials through EHD printing that are specifically tailored to meet NASAs requirements. Their work includes establishing guidelines to address the challenges associated with 3D printing on curved surfaces.According to the researchers, the outcomes of these projects could extend beyond space exploration. Technologies developed through these initiatives, including sensors, tissues, and other materials, could have broader applications in biomedicine, materials science, and other fields that require advanced manufacturing techniques.In-space manufacturing with 3D printingOngoing developments in manufacturing technology are steadily bringing in-space manufacturing closer to practical application. This year, the European Space Agencys (ESA) Metal3D project sent the first metal 3D printed part produced in space to Earth for testing.Metal 3D printed part from space. Photo via ESA.Manufactured aboard the ISS using Metal 3D Printer developed byAirbus Defence & SpaceandAddUp, the part was created in mid-2024 and has now arrived at ESAs European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in the Netherlands for analysis. Researchers will compare it with Earth-printed samples to evaluate how microgravity affects the printing process, providing data essential for developing reliable in-space manufacturing for future missions.Back in 2023, in-space manufacturing deep-tech startup Orbital Composites received a $1.7 million U.S. Space Force SpaceWERX Orbital Prime SBIR contract, funded by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), to advance In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) antennas.Working with Axiom Space, Northrop Grumman, and Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), Orbital aims to enhance Satellite-Based Cellular Broadband (SBCB) and Space-Based Solar Power (SBSP) through in-space manufacturing. The project seeks to reduce costs and expand commercial opportunities by building antennas directly in space.What3D printing trendsshould you watch out for in 2025?How is thefuture of 3D printingshaping up?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows Jamel Ali, Ph.D., (L) and Subramanian Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., pose with the nScrypt 3D printer at the High-Performance Materials Institute (HPMI) of the Materials Research Building (MRB) at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in Tallahassee, Florida. Photo via FSU.

Researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) have introduced a fresh approach to 3D printing polymer foams that can achieve a broader range of mechanical properties and expansion capabilities.Having used catalyst-free dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC), their method embeds dynamic phosphodiester bonds within polymers containing foaming agent microspheres. These bonds can exchange during thermal foaming, allowing the materials to expand more effectively without sacrificing structural integrity.Published in RSC Applied Polymers, this research was co-led by chemistry doctoral students Ariel Tolfree, and Rebecca Johnson under the supervision of Dr. Ron Smaldone, Associate Professor of chemistry and biochemistry in the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and who is also the corresponding author of the study.This is probably the longest project Ive ever done, said Johnson, who plans to complete her PhD in chemistry in May. From start to finish, it was a little over two years. A lot of it was trying to get the polymer formulation correct to be compatible with the 3D printer.Tiny dog-shaped pieces of sturdy, lightweight 3D printed foam. Photo via UT Dallas.Overcoming structural limitations with dynamic bondingPolymer foams are valued for their lightweight structure, insulation, and mechanical properties, but balancing pore size, density, and strength remains challenging. Conventional methods using gas injection often face trade-offs. Moreover, higher crosslinking density enhances toughness but limits expansion, while larger pores reduce density and mechanical strength.The researchers addressed this issue using DCC, which allows bonds to rearrange under specific conditions. Unlike conventional polymers with fixed bonds, these adaptable networks enhance performance and recyclability. Therefore, they focused on phosphodiester bonds for their chemical stability and ability to exchange at temperatures as low as 50C without harmful or costly catalysts.Foaming microspheres were embedded within a polymer matrix containing varying concentrations of dynamic and non-dynamic crosslinkers. When these printed parts were heated at 165C for 15 minutes, the foaming process began. As the thermoplastic shell of the microspheres softened, the liquid hydrocarbon inside vaporized and expanded. Cooling then hardened the shells, forming a closed-cell foam.Were certainly not the only ones trying to do this, Smaldone said. The novelty is using dynamic chemistry to print really great foam material. The next question to address will be, how do we tune the properties and use this new kind of knowledge to fit a variety of different needs?Comparative testing and recyclability resultsIn testing, researchers compared non-dynamic tetraethylene glycol diacrylate (TEGDA) crosslinkers with dynamic Bis[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] Phosphate (DPE) crosslinkers and found that dynamic crosslinkers consistently achieved greater expansion. The foaming process involved direct phosphodiester exchanges, rearrangements forming triester and monoester products, and interactions with ester groups, mechanisms that enhanced network reorganization and expansion.To ensure the bond exchanges were working as intended, researchers used Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which confirmed dynamic bond exchange through transesterification and condensation mechanisms. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed higher crosslinker content raised glass transition temperatures, indicating improved network uniformity.When put to the test, unfoamed dynamic polymers demonstrated higher compressive strengths, ranging from 180 to 216 MPa, compared to the 130 to 150 MPa recorded for non-dynamic polymers. After foaming, the dynamic polymers demonstrated better energy dissipation and compressive strength than non-dynamic foams with similar expansion.Theres more. The team also tested the foams recyclability by compressing unfoamed cylinders to 70% of their height and allowing them to recover before foaming. Dynamic phosphodiester polymers retained their mechanical properties better than non-dynamic TEGDA foams, indicating effective damage repair through bond rearrangement and condensation reactions.Ultimately, the study suggests that dynamic phosphodiester bonds provide a promising route to achieving higher foam expansion, improved mechanical strength, and energy dissipation without the need for catalysts. Its a method that could extend the lifespan of 3D printed foams and open up broader applications for these materials.3D printing with foamAway from UT Dallas, contributions in foam 3D printing also came from Nano Dimension-acquired Desktop Metal, which launched FreeFoam, a 3D printable photopolymer resin developed by its subsidiary Adaptive3D.Introduced at Foam Expo North America in June 2022, FreeFoam enables customizable foam parts to expand up to seven times their original size when heated between 160 170C. Available on the ETEC Xtreme 8K DLP 3D printer, it allows for reduced waste, enhanced design flexibility, and improved shipping efficiency across sectors like automotive, furniture, footwear, and healthcare.Elsewhere, UC San Diegos Department of NanoEngineering researchers developed an expandable foaming resin compatible with SLA 3D printers. Designed for heat-induced expansion post-UV-curing, the resin enabled the creation of parts up to 4000% larger than the printers build volume.The study aimed to overcome geometric limitations in manufacturing, with potential applications in aerospace, architecture, energy, and biomedicine. Testing involved heating 3D printed HEMA resin models at 200C for up to ten minutes, achieving significant expansion and suggesting uses in lightweight components like aerofoils and buoyancy aids.What3D printing trendsshould you watch out for in 2025?How is thefuture of 3D printingshaping up?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows tiny dog-shaped pieces of sturdy, lightweight 3D printed foam. Photo via UT Dallas.