It’s hard to overstate the impact desktop 3D printing has had on the making and hacking scene. It drastically lowered the barrier for many to create their own projects, and …read more

In this edition of SLICED, the 3D Printing Industry news digest, we compile the latest developments across the additive manufacturing (AM) sector, including equipment-sharing partnerships, market expansions in Europe and Mexico, and new standards working groups. Today’s edition features reseller appointments, research consortium launches, large-format platform integrations, dental appliance automation, and calls for conference speakers. Read on for updates from AM 4 AM, Meltio, One Click Metal, Axtra3D, Nikon SLM Solutions, Formnext 2025, and more. Emerging partnerships from AM 4 AM, and Meltio Kicking off with partnerships, Luxembourg’s materials R&D firm AM 4 AM has partnered with Stockholm aluminum powder supplier Gränges Powder Metallurgy (GPM), relocating the Swedish supplier’s materials characterization park to AM 4 AM’s facility. Under the agreement, AM 4 AM will operate GPM’s particle size analyzers, thermal testers, and mechanical-testing rigs to accelerate development cycles and strengthen quality control across both companies’ product lines. AM 4 AM Co-founder Maxime Delmée noted that access to GPM’s instrumentation will enable faster iteration and more data-driven decision-making. Highlighting benefits, GPM Managing Director Peter Vikner explained that relocating the equipment to AM 4 AM addressed both firms’ R&D requirements while leveraging AM 4 AM’s operational capabilities. Moving on, Spanish wire-laser metal 3D printer manufacturer Meltio has announced partnerships with Monterrey-based service provider Alar, and academic institution  Tecnológico de Monterrey.With this move, Alar will integrate the award-winning M600 industrial wire-laser 3D printer into its production lines, while the institution has acquired a Meltio M450 for academic training and industry collaboration.  Additionally, the Spanish manufacturer has also announced additive manufacturing integrator Sitres Latam as its official distributor. Meltio’s wire-feed deposition process, which supports stainless steel, titanium, Inconel, and copper, offers mechanical properties on par with conventionally manufactured parts while reducing waste and emissions. “This alliance with Sitres, Alar, and Tecnológico de Monterrey is fundamental to promoting real and functional metal 3D printing solutions in Mexico,” said Alar CEO Andrea Alarcón. Meltio partners with Alar, SITRES, and Tecnológico de Monterrey to expand metal 3D printing capabilities in Mexico. Photo via Meltio. One Click Metal and Axtra3D Appoint New Resellers in Iberia Turning to resellers and distribution, German metal 3D printing systems developer One Click Metal has expanded into Portugal through a collaboration with Lisbon’s industrial additive manufacturing services provider 3D Ever. The agreement gives local businesses direct access to One Click Metal’s cartridge-based powder handling systems and Lab Module for rapid material changes, alongside region-specific training and post-installation support. Founded in 2017, 3D Ever operates a multi-technology showroom—covering covering stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), fused filament fabrication (FFF), and direct metal laser sintering (DMLS)—and hosts open-house events and technical workshops to integrate 3D printing into customer workflows. “Portugal is a dynamic market for additive manufacturing,” said One Click Metal’s Global Sales Director Martin Heller, “and 3D Ever’s deep industry knowledge makes them the ideal partner.” Meanwhile, Milan-based photopolymer 3D printer innovator Axtra3D has named Spain and Portugal’s Maquinser S.A. as its professional reseller for Hi-Speed SLA systems. Maquinser will showcase the Lumia X1 platform combining Hybrid PhotoSynthesis and TruLayer technologies at three major industry events through June: the International Machine-Tool Fair (EMAF) in Porto, Portugal; the Subcontratación Industrial & Addit3D expo in Bilbao, Spain; and the MindTECH manufacturing technology fair in Porto. “Axtra3D’s Hi-Speed SLA strikes the balance between surface quality, precision, and material flexibility,” said Maquinser CEO Christian Postigo. Andreas Tulaj, SVP Europe Sales at Axtra3D, added that Maquinser’s regional presence ensures localized support, rapid deployment, and customer-specific solutions across automotive, aerospace, energy, and mold-making sectors. Axtra3D appoints Maquinser S.A. as official reseller for Spain and Portugal. Image via Maquinser. 3MF Consortium and Ecosistema GO! Launch AM Research Initiatives On the research corner, the Microsoft-backed standards organization 3MF Consortium has formed a 6-Axis Toolpath Working Group to define open data structures for robotic and multi-axis AM workflows. The effort invites professionals using industrial robots and advanced CNC platforms to develop a 3MF extension that encodes non-planar toolpath data, enabling seamless interoperability across design, toolpath generation, and machine control software. Originally created to surpass STL and OBJ for complex manufacturing data, the 3MF format already supports units, materials, lattices, slice data, and metadata. This new working group will build on modules like the Beam Lattice Extension to integrate multi-axis motion paths, with open-source reference implementations available via the consortium’s GitHub repository. Elsewhere in Europe, Spain’s Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI)-backed Ecosistema GO! Project (coordinated by Leitat with partners Aitiip, Idonial, Aimen, Addimat, HP, and Meltio) has launched to map national AM capabilities and drive industrial adoption. The initiative will publish a structured “map of capabilities” covering infrastructure, specialization areas, and R&D projects, while hosting workshops in automotive, energy, and aerospace to share success stories and define adoption strategies. “Ecosistema GO! aligns capabilities, generates synergies, and accelerates AM’s real incorporation into Spanish industry,” said IAM3DHUB General Secretary David Adrover. Open for new members through December 2025, the consortium aims to serve as Spain’s reference network for additive manufacturing. The 3MF Consortium invites participants to join its newly launched 6-Axis Toolpath Working Group. Image via 3MF Consortium. Dental Production Boosted by DMP Flex 200 Integration at DynaFlex In dental applications, U.S. orthodontic manufacturer DynaFlex has upgraded its digital workflow with the DMP Flex 200 metal 3D printer from 3D Systems, supplied and installed by their official supplier Nota3D. Featuring a 500 W laser and enlarged build platform, the system has increased DynaFlex’s production speeds by up to 80% for small custom components such as fixed appliances and bands. Matt Malabey, DynaFlex’s Director of Operations, noted that integrated software for orientation, nesting, and support generation further streamlines workflow: “Automation tools and improved onboarding allow us to scale smarter and faster.” The Flex 200 supports LaserForm CoCr, Stainless Steel 316 L, and Ti Gr23 alloys, aligning material properties with clinical performance standards. Prusa Research Opens EasyPrint to All Mobile Users Shifting to software, Czech desktop 3D printer maker Prusa Research has launched EasyPrint, a cloud-powered slicer embedded in the official PRUSA mobile app and accessible via Printables.com. It lets users prepare and send G-code directly from smartphones and tablets, automatically detecting compatible printers and applying the correct print profiles. An interactive 3D preview allows models to be moved, rotated, scaled and batch-arranged on virtual beds, while basic settings such as copy count and object size are consolidated into a one-click workflow. EasyPrint began as an invite-only beta used to collect performance metrics and optimize scalability before opening to everyone once preliminary tests proved the service smooth, according to Ondřej Drebota, Prusa’s Head of Country Development Managers & Partnerships Manager. All G-code generation runs in the cloud, enabling even low-powered devices to handle complex workflows, and users can download prepared files for offline printing. Prusa plans to extend EasyPrint compatibility to non-Prusa printers in future updates, broadening its reach across the 3D printing community. Nikon SLM Solutions and DynaFlex Upgrade Metal AM Workflow On 3D platform news, German metal 3D printer manufacturer Nikon SLM Solutions has integrated Freiburg’s automated depowdering specialist Solukon’s SFM-AT1500-S system at its Long Beach, California AM Technology Center. Paired to German manufacturer’s NXG 600E large-format 3D printer, the SPR-Pathfinder-driven unit handles parts up to 1,500 mm tall and 2,100 kg total weight, automating powder removal for industrial-scale metal components. Nikon SLM Solutions’ COO Gerhard Bierleutgeb stressed the importance of closely linking printing and automated depowdering for optimal production flow. Solukon’s CTO Andreas Hartmann added that the SFM-AT1500-S was custom-engineered to meet Nikon’s requirements for high-mass, complex geometries while maintaining a compact installation footprint. Andreas Hartmann, CEO/CTO of Solukon, and Joshua Forster, Production Manager at Nikon SLM Solutions. Photo via Solukon. Formnext 2025 Announces Call for Speakers Looking ahead to events, Germany’s trade-fair organizer Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH has opened its call for speakers for the upcoming Formnext 2025, to be held November 18-21 in Frankfurt. Submissions for the Industry Stage (covering sustainability, AI, standards, and talent) and the Application Stage (focusing on sectors like automotive, aerospace, and medical) remain open through June. Mesago’s Vice President Christoph Stüker explained that the multistage program is central to Formnext’s mission of disseminating AM knowledge and driving new applications. Additionally, Vice President Sascha F. Wenzler noted that the speaking slots offer an ideal platform for experts to share insights, build their profiles, and forge valuable industry connections. Adding to that, materials supplier participation at Formnext Asia Shenzhen 2025 has jumped 68% year-on-year, with booth bookings already at 70% capacity for the 26–28 August event at Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center. The expanded materials segment, now covering advanced polymers, composites and specialised alloys, will feature over 30 exhibitors in metal powders (including Acc Material, JSJW New Material and Tiangong Technology), ceramics (Wuhan 3DCERAM, Nanoe France) and polymers (eSUN, SUNLU).  Louis Leung, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt, highlighted China’s rapid ascent as an AM leader, noting that national policy support and investment have fuelled double-digit growth in the domestic materials sector. Fringe activities include the 3D Print Farm Conference on filament supply chains and an expanded Laser & AM Forum, while related events, Formnext Asia Forum Tokyo (25-6 September) and Formnext Frankfurt round out the global network. Exhibitor registrations remain open online. A panel discussion recorded live at the Industry Stage during Formnext 2024. Photo via Formnext/Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH. Take the 3DPI Reader Survey — shape the future of AM reporting in under 5 minutes. 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 shows a panel discussion recorded live at the Industry Stage during Formnext 2024. Photo via Formnext/Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH. 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.

This quick tip is from t̶h̶e̶ ̶S̶e̶c̶o̶n̶d̶ ̶A̶g̶e̶ our course PRINTLAB: Your Guide to 3D Printing with Blender and a Prusa printer. Not intended for the forging of soul-binding artifacts.

A new contest is underway, inviting designers and 3D printing enthusiasts to create custom accessories for the CMF Phone 2 Pro, a modular smartphone from CMF by Nothing. Organized in partnership with Czech based 3D printer manufacturer Prusa Research, the contest focuses on designs that enhance the phone’s appearance, functionality, or usability. Open for another 22 days, the contest allows each participant to submit up to five entries.  At the time of writing, 225 submissions have been received. Designers are encouraged to develop back covers, attachments, or other accessories that align with the CMF Phone 2 Pro’s structure. The phone features visible screws and a universal adaptor, making it compatible with a range of physical modifications. “We’ve teamed up with our friends at Prusa to launch a design challenge built around CMF Phone 2 Pro and its all-new Universal Cover. The best of the best will be able to bring their design to life with a brand new CMF Phone 2 Pro and Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer. Plus more prizes up for grabs,” said the CMF team. Phone Stand for CMF Phone 2 PRO. Photo via user GRZ Design/Printables. “Make tech fun” with 3D printing Entries may focus on convenience, additional features, or purely visual elements, but only accessories tailored to the CMF Phone 2 Pro will be accepted. General-purpose phone stands or unrelated designs do not qualify. To ensure accessibility, CMF has provided all the necessary files, measurements, and design references for those who don’t own the device. Prizes for the Top Three Entries: 1st Place: Original Prusa MK4S Kit and CMF Phone 2 Pro 2nd Place: CMF Phone 2 Pro, CMF Buds Pro 2, and 1200 Prusameters 3rd Place: CMF Phone 2 Pro and 800 Prusameters This isn’t the first time CMF by Nothing has involved the maker community. Last year, the brand collaborated with Chinese desktop 3D printer manufacturer Bambu Lab on a similar initiative focused on the CMF Phone 1. That contest, hosted on MakerWorld, asked designers to create custom components for the phone’s modular design. Participants had access to STEP files and technical specs to assist in the development of precise designs. The 2024 contest recognized winners in three categories: Best Functional, Best-Looking, and Most Unexpected. Judges included creators from the 3D printing space such as 3D Printing Nerd and Unnecessary Inventions, along with Nothing Co-Founder Akis Evangelidis, who emphasized the company’s commitment to co-creation with its user base. Building on that approach, the new contest continues CMF’s engagement with the design and 3D printing community, this time hosted on Printables.com, where users can find entry guidelines, design files, and current submissions. The Ultimate Magnetic Camera Cage for CMF Phone 2 PRO. Photo via user 3D Kimba/Printables. Shaping mobile accessories with 3D printing With 3D printing increasingly shaping how mobile accessories are developed, companies have started turning to open design challenges and in-house production to rethink both customization and manufacturing. Accessories company Incase and 3D printer manufacturer Carbon entered a multi-year R&D partnership to develop and mass-produce 3D printed mobile device protectors using Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) technology. As part of the deal, Incase gained access to 20 Carbon M2 printers, proprietary software, and exclusive rights to co-brand products made with the process.  The protectors were designed with complex lattice structures and new elastomers that offer enhanced impact protection in a lightweight form. This partnership also streamlined design and production, enabling faster iteration, reduced prototyping, and on-demand manufacturing Elsewhere, Netherlands-based 3D printer manufacturer Ultimaker kicked off a contest inviting users to design accessories for the OnePlus One smartphone and share them on Youmagine. In just a week, the platform saw a wave of submissions, with several downloadable designs quickly appearing online.  To make things interesting, Ultimaker offered participants a chance to win either an Ultimaker 2 or a OnePlus One. Once the entry period ended, the public helped narrow down the field by voting for their favorites. From those finalists, judges from both Ultimaker and OnePlus chose the top three winning designs. Take the 3DPI Reader Survey — shape the future of AM reporting in under 5 minutes. 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 phone stand for CMF Phone 2 PRO. Photo via user GRZ Design/Printables.

Researchers at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) have developed MiniFix, a fully 3D printed syringe-based biological fixation system engineered for spaceflight. Successfully deployed in five MAPHEUS sounding rocket missions, MiniFix represents a breakthrough in experimental payload design, combining rapid prototyping, modularity, and robust performance in microgravity environments, combining rapid prototyping with modular, lightweight, and reliable performance under the extreme conditions of microgravity research. A 3D printing milestone for space life science Unlike conventional biological fixation systems, MiniFix is entirely produced via Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). Key components, including the syringe holders, baseplate, and housing, were fabricated using desktop 3D printers, notably a Prusa MK3+, with 0.4 mm nozzles and a 0.3 mm layer height. This approach enabled fast, low-cost iteration and customization of parts to suit different missions and experimental needs. The system has undergone structural revisions using three different filaments; PLA (Polylactic Acid), used in initial missions (MAPHEUS-09 and -12), PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), chosen for enhanced mechanical durability (MAPHEUS-14), and GreenTEC Pro, a compostable bioplastic with high thermal resistance, used in MAPHEUS-15. This made MiniFix the first biologically compostable experiment structure to fly aboard a rocket. Sectional, translucent view through the MiniFix fixation system. Image via Sebastian Feles / DLR. Modular design for rapid adaptation MiniFix features a dual-syringe configuration, where a fixative and a biological sample are housed in vertically stacked syringes. Syringe actuation is handled by NEMA11 stepper motors coupled with linear actuators, allowing precise fluid dispensing. The hardware is modular and sterilizable, enabling pre-assembled syringe units to be installed under sterile conditions. Its all-3D printed chassis ensures that custom features, like integrated lighting for plant experiments, can be introduced quickly without redesigning the core system. This makes MiniFix suitable for various biological models, from unicellular organisms to organoids. Variants of the SBBFS Configuration. Image via Sebastian Feles / DLR. Built-in thermal regulation via waste heat A standout innovation is MiniFix’s passive thermal management system, which uses the heat generated by its stepper motors to maintain stable internal temperatures. With no need for separate heating elements, this system simplifies design, reduces power draw, and lowers overall payload mass, critical factors for sounding rocket missions with strict weight and energy budgets. Test data from MAPHEUS-15 showed that MiniFix maintained an internal temperature of 21.98 °C ±0.12 °C, consuming just 4.6 Wh during operation, even under ambient conditions as low as 4 °C. Space-tested reliability The reliability of this 3D printed structure was put to the test across multiple missions. MiniFix successfully endured extreme conditions, including launch vibrations exceeding 20 g and temperature swings from hypergravity to microgravity and re-entry. Across four missions, its components have shown no degradation or material failure, with post-flight inspections confirming the integrity of all printed parts and mechanical systems. Future applications Beyond fixation, MiniFix could evolve into a general-purpose liquid handling system for space. Its syringe mechanism is already capable of performing programmable mixing and the platform could be adapted for reagent delivery, drug testing, or even microfluidics in space-based manufacturing. Additionally, it exemplifies how additive manufacturing can accelerate experimental development cycles while maintaining reliability in harsh environments. Its open-source microcontroller and modular design ethos further position it as a template for future experimental hardware in life sciences and beyond.3D printing gains traction in space hardware development Additive manufacturing is rapidly transforming the development of spaceflight hardware, from on‑orbit part fabrication to ground-based launch systems. Just this year, ESA’s Metal3D printer aboard the ISS produced the first metal 3D‑printed part in microgravity, now safely back on Earth for analysis. Meanwhile, Nikon and JAXA are collaborating to refine large-scale metal 3D printing for space components, advancing materials and process control to shorten lead times and reduce launch costs. Within this context, DLR’s MiniFix system exemplifies a new wave of highly adaptable, mission‑specific payloads, completely fabricated using desktop FDM printers and bioplastics, optimized for the rigors of sounding rocket flight and microgravity research. The full research paper, titled “Pioneering the Future of Experimental Space Hardware,” is available in Microgravity Science and Technology via Springer Nature. Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us onLinkedIn and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry YouTube channel to access more exclusive content. At 3DPI, our mission is to deliver high-quality journalism, technical insight, and industry intelligence to professionals across the AM ecosystem.Help us shape the future of 3D printing industry news with our2025 reader survey. Featured image shows sectional, translucent view through the MiniFix fixation system. Image via Sebastian Feles / DLR.

Though Philips is no longer the consumer electronics giant they once were—they've shifted into health technology—they still manufacture some personal care items, like electric shavers and hair dryers. Now, somewhat bizarrely, they're dipping their foot into the DIY repair movement to support those products. The company has partnered with Prusa, the Czech company that has become one of the world's largest manufacturers of 3D printers, to launch this new Philips Fixables initiative.The idea is that Philips will provide 3D files for replacement parts for their products. Consumers will be able to download these files and print the parts themselves, or through a supplier. For now the selection is quite sparse—the only downloadable file available is for a trimmer comb—but the initiative has only launched this month, and the company says more parts are to come. (And hopefully more languages, too; at present the Fixables website is only presented in Czech.)

Molex, global manufacturer of electronic and fiber optic connectivity systems, is working with Czech FDM 3D printer manufacturer Prusa Research to support the integration of connector technologies into 3D printing systems. Key components in this collaboration include Molex’s CLIK-Mate wire-to-board connectors, Micro-Fit power connectors, and ultra-microcoaxial RF connectors.  With support from American multinational electronics components distributor Arrow Electronics, these systems are designed to streamline assembly processes and simplify upgrades and new product introductions. “Prusa Research needed connectivity systems with the right balance of functionality and simplicity without compromising quality,” said Brian Hauge, SVP and president, Consumer and Commercial Solutions, Molex. “With support from Arrow Electronics, we provide a full portfolio of connectors that are robust yet easy to use. Molex also stays in lockstep with Arrow and Prusa engineers to align emerging printer designs with new innovative connector solutions to ease new product introductions and upgrades.” The Original Prusa MK4 printing a component. Photo via Prusa Research. Prusa: Scaling Operations to Meet Global Demand In 2024, Prusa Research processed over 300,000 orders for printers, filaments, resins, and accessories. To further strengthen its global presence, the company also established a U.S. subsidiary, Printed Solid, in Newark, Delaware, focused on producing printers and filaments within the United States. As part of its ongoing expansion, Prusa Research incorporated Molex connector systems into its manufacturing process. The CLIK-Mate connectors were selected for their low insertion force, secure terminal design, and audible engagement feature, ensuring precise installation. Prusa highlighted that CLIK-Mate connectors not only ensure DIY users avoid incorrect connections, but also assist engineers in enhancing production efficiency by accelerating the surface mount technology (SMT) assembly process. By early 2025, Prusa is utilizing up to 16 variations of CLIK-Mate connectors across its printer lineup, including the newly launched CORE One model. “In 2024, Prusa grew 25% year over year, and we are excited for this year, which will be even bigger,” said Josef Prusa, CEO of Prusa Research. “We populated over one million parts using Molex CLIK-Mate connectors last year, and they’ve all delivered excellent performance. With over 20 printer models using Molex connectors, we’re continuing our collaboration with Arrow and Molex to expand further across Europe and scale our U.S. operations.” Additional Molex systems used by Prusa include Micro-Fit Connectors for combining signal and power in constrained spaces, and ultra-microcoaxial RF connectors for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections. The company is also evaluating Molex’s Easy-On FFC/FPC connectors and other customized connectivity solutions for potential implementation in future models. Prusa Research’s Expanding Lineup Prusa Research continues to evolve its 3D printer portfolio to meet the needs of both professional and advanced desktop users.  One of Prusa’s latest innovations is the Prusa XL, featuring a CoreXY configuration and a 360 mm³ print volume. This model stands out with its tool changer that includes five independent toolheads, reducing waste compared to single-nozzle alternatives and offering increased versatility. While the Prusa XL may not be the fastest desktop FFF 3D printer, with a maximum 3D print speed of 400 mm/s, its ability to seamlessly switch between toolheads for different nozzle sizes and filament types enhances productivity, especially for multi-material parts. The fully assembled version of the Prusa XL is priced at €2,599, while the semi-assembled model is available for €2,099 on the official Prusa website. Additionally, Prusa’s professional-grade offerings include the Prusa Pro HT90, a delta-kinematics 3D printer designed for high-speed, high-temperature FDM printing. The Prusa Pro HT90 delivers impressive performance with travel speeds of up to 600 mm/s, 3D print speeds of 250 mm/s, and acceleration rates of 20,000 mm/s². The system features lightweight, quick-swap printheads, with a direct-drive extruder to enhance production efficiency. Its High-Temp printhead can reach temperatures up to 500°C, suitable for challenging materials, while the High-Flow head operates best at 300°C, enabling the printer to deposit 1 kg of PETG or ABS in just 8 hours. The Prusa Pro HT90 is available starting at €11,490. Take the 3DPIReader Survey — shape the future of AM reporting in under 5 minutes. Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards? Subscribe to the3D 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 new Prusa Core One. Photo via Prusa Research.