Early news from Formnext 2024 indicates that many new 3D printers and the latest additive manufacturing technology will be announced at this month’s Frankfurt trade show. If you have your Formnext tickets and hotel booked, then bookmark this page. We’ll be updating it with more 3D printing news.
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All the news from Formnext 2024.
All the news from Formnext 2023.
New 3D printers from ARBURG, CEAD, Mimaki Europe, and Renishaw
Global engineering firm Renishaw is launching a new addition to its RenAM 500 series metal AM systems at Hall 11.0, Booth C11. Equipped with advanced laser technology and intelligent process monitoring, the system ensures precise control throughout the AM process, delivering consistently high-quality parts.
Designed to attract new users, it offers a lower initial investment without compromising part quality. Featuring high-powered lasers that simultaneously access the entire powder bed, the system boosts build rates and productivity.
With the integration of TEMPUS technology, these lasers can fire as the recoater moves, reducing build times by up to 50% and saving nine seconds per layer. Existing RenAM 500 users can upgrade to TEMPUS for improved performance. Renishaw will host live demonstrations during the event, with opportunities for personal meetings.
German 3D printer and injection molding systems manufacturer ARBURGadditive is set to premiere the Freeformer 550-3X, equipped with the Gestica production assistant, which seamlessly guides users through production tasks. Additionally, the TiQ 8 filament 3D printer from innovatiQ will be on display, showcasing its capability to process high-temperature materials like PEKK, while the LiQ 5 will demonstrate its innovative work in printing liquid silicone rubber (LSR) with support material for the first time.
In Hall 12.1, Stand D79, ARBURGadditive will also highlight diverse applications, from medical knee implants and LSR components to on-demand 3D printed grippers. Building on its Arburg Plastic Freeforming (APF) technology, the company will introduce new materials, including Ultem 9085 and TR 90, expanding its AM portfolio.
At the tradeshow, ARBURGadditive will also spotlight its involvement in the “Seestern” project, which focuses on combining StarJet technology with the Freeformer system to enable the additive manufacturing of multi-material components, such as hybrid sensors. This initiative aims to reduce costs and material use in structural electronics, offering significant advantages to industries like electronics.
Simon Leitl, Director Development APF at ARBURGadditive, said, “One major advantage is that we can draw on a wealth of expertise and exploit synergies with the world of injection molding, for example in the areas of control systems, automation, turnkey solutions, and digitalization. At Formnext 2024, we will be presenting many application examples of how to do this that will deliver real added value.”
Netherlands-based company CEAD will unveil its latest Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) machine series at the tradeshow, spotlighting solutions designed for industry-specific applications. Visitors to booth C91 in hall 12.1 can expect live demonstrations, where CEAD’s modular platform integrates 3D printing and CNC milling, meeting unique demands in sectors such as architecture and design for serial furniture production.
Moreover, CEAD brings updates to its Flexbot, addressing challenges in producing wide parts efficiently within a compact setup. Throughout the event, partners will share success stories from sectors like maritime and automotive, showcasing how LFAM technology transforms traditional manufacturing processes.
On another note, Mimaki Europe is set to showcase its full-color 3D printing portfolio at Formnext, demonstrating the potential of its 3DUJ Series printers in diverse fields, including design, engineering, medical, and the arts. Known for their ability to print in over 10 million colors and use clear, translucent inks, the 3DUJ-553 and 3DUJ-2207 printers produce intricate, vibrant prototypes and art pieces.
Mimaki says it is also committed to education, offering discounts to universities and hands-on experience for students. At the event, Mimaki will display novel applications like detailed figurines, furniture prototypes, and collaborative designs, including a student footwear project with Adobe in Hall 12.1, Booth E59.
Italian desktop and professional grade 3D printers developer Sharebot is launching the SnowWhite HT 3D printer alongside the AI-driven IAmSharebot platform at Formnext 2024. The SnowWhite HT is designed to meet the growing demands of industries such as aerospace, automotive, jewelry, and advanced prototyping. Capable of utilizing high-temperature materials, it delivers precision, speed, and reliability for complex processes while expanding application possibilities with professional-grade powders.
Complementing this launch, the IAmSharebot platform leverages AI to provide technical guidance and optimize printing workflows. By answering queries and offering detailed process management support, it enhances efficiency, reduces errors, and ensures consistent quality. Together, these developments highlight Sharebot’s focus on addressing industry needs for advanced and flexible 3D printing solutions.
New materials by Formlabs, Fiberthree, Sunlu, and more
3D printer OEM Formlabs is introducing the Creator Series, a new range of affordable, safer resins designed specifically for hobbyist 3D printers. Launching with Creator Tough Resin and Creator Super Clear Resin, both priced at $45/kg on Amazon, the series ensures compatibility with non-Formlabs Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) and Digital Light Processing (DLP) printers.
These resins prioritize safety by eliminating ACMO, a hazardous chemical in low-cost resins, reducing health risks and odors. Tough Resin offers strength, flexibility, and a paintable matte finish, while Super Clear Resin delivers optical clarity with post-processing options. Validated for printers including Elegoo Mars 4 9K, Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra, Anycubic Photon M2, Anycubic Photon D2, Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K, Uniformation GK2, and Creality Halot Mage 8K, this series enables hobbyists with accessible, high-quality 3D printing materials.
Fiberthree is launching the F3 PA ESD filament, a carbon-fiber-filled polyamide (PA-CF) filament designed for electrostatic discharge (ESD) applications, at Formnext 2024. After three years of development and over 34 formulations, it offers a surface resistance of 10⁵ to 10⁷ Ω/cm, meeting DIN EN 61340-5 standards. It delivers tensile strength of 84 MPa and consistent conductivity across horizontal and vertical planes, surpassing other ESD materials.
Compatible with FFF printers and industrial machines, it supports versatile applications, including combining conductive and non-conductive structures in a single print. Available in multiple spool sizes, Fiberthree also announced a forthcoming high-conductivity filament for sensor and circuit trace printing, further expanding its advanced materials portfolio.
Additionally, TRUMPF is unveiling new aluminum alloys for 3D printing, catering to industries such as automotive, aerospace, and bicycles. Designed for diverse applications ranging from lightweight prototyping to high-strength production, the alloys deliver performance on par with machined components. Each variant addresses specific industry needs, including cost-efficient options for automotive and the adoption of aluminum 6061 for bicycle frame production. Customers can explore these materials at TRUMPF’s 3D Printing Application Lab in Ditzingen, where experts provide guidance to optimize material selection.
“The new aluminum alloys can be used in numerous 3D printing applications, from prototyping to series production. Users benefit from the typical advantages of 3D printing, such as lightweight construction, material savings, and a large degree of control in component design. The quality of the printed parts is at least as good as that of machined ones,” says Jan Christian Schauer, responsible for additive manufacturing material selection at TRUMPF.
3D printing firm SUNLU is expanding its range of 3D printing materials with two high-performance filaments designed for professional applications: PC/ABS and PA12-CF. Engineered for durability and precision, PC/ABS combines heat resistance up to 102°C with an impact strength of 70 KJ/m², offering a surface-friendly option ideal for electroplating and painting.
In addition, PA12-CF brings exceptional high-temperature resistance, enduring up to 175°C, along with impressive durability for rugged applications. Its lightweight composition and low moisture absorption ensure reliable precision in every project. These filaments provide a versatile solution for those seeking strength and reliability in demanding 3D printing tasks, says the company. Interested parties can contact SUNLU for samples and further details about these innovative materials.
German chemicals company Evonik will showcase its latest PA12-based materials for additive manufacturing at Formnext 2024, addressing industry needs for precision, durability, and efficiency in 3D printing applications. Designed using a precipitation process, the INFINAM 6013 P and 6014 P powders feature carbon black encapsulated in a core-shell structure. Optimized for powder bed fusion techniques like SLS, these powders offer improved UV resistance, uniform pigmentation, and reduced surface abrasion while ensuring high flowability and homogenous sintering.
Working with HP, Evonik launched HP 3D HR PA12 FR, a halogen-free, flame-retardant polymer with 50% reusability. Compatible with HP JF 5600 printers, the material reduces waste and enables efficient production. Evonik also presented INFINAM TPA 4006 P, a durable PA12 powder for SLS, ideal for consumer goods like footwear.
Californian sustainable metal powder developer Continuum Powders will display an oil and gas part made with its reclaimed metal powder on a RenAM 500 system at Formnext 2024. As part of a collaboration with Renishaw, its powders have been qualified for the RenAM 500 series, ensuring seamless compatibility with additive manufacturing systems. Designed for high performance, these powders enable reclaimed material use, promoting enhanced circularity in production processes.
“The quality of Continuum Powders’ materials and their commitment to what they call the circular metal economy align perfectly with Renishaw’s vision for a more sustainable manufacturing future,” said John Laureto, AM Business Manager at Renishaw, Inc. “The availability of reclaimed metal powders that meet our exacting standards helps manufacturers reduce waste while maintaining peak performance.”
Nano Dimension, and Replique to demonstrate key innovations
Electronics 3D printer manufacturer Nano Dimension will showcase several new developments at Hall 11, Stand D22, focusing on both software and materials as part of its expanding AM and Micro-AM portfolio. Highlighting the event is the updated Fabrica micro 3D printer software, version 3.2.0, which boosts print speeds by up to 70% for R&D and prototyping while streamlining workflow.
Another notable debut is Ataru, a new resin designed for Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printers that offers superior thermo-mechanical and dielectric properties, ideal for demanding sectors like electronics, aerospace, and automotive. Additionally, the company will be demonstrating the Admatec series’ ability to 3D print complex technical ceramics, addressing industrial manufacturing needs. Nano Dimension will also present various customer applications across medical devices, tooling, and more.
Replique, a venture from BASF‘s Chemovator incubator, will be displaying its expanded manufacturing capabilities at Formnext, offering forging, casting, and injection molding alongside its established 3D printing services to meet a wider range of industrial needs. Moreover, its updated Material Hub now includes metal materials and a new comparison tool to support efficient material selection for over 400 users.
In Hall 12.1, Booth B117, Replique will also highlight its healthcare-focused applications, showcasing a 3D printed containment valve developed with Zermec Pharma AG and a rollator frame created with RehamedPower, both designed to meet specific requirements in healthcare and pharmaceutical production.
Wayland Additive advancing metal AM with NeuBeam process
Wayland Additive will introduce its NeuBeam technology at Formnext 2024, featuring the Calibur3 metal AM system at Hall 12.0, stand B139. Designed specifically for production, NeuBeam employs a stabilized electron beam (eBeam) process that offers robust process stability, flexibility, and in-depth in-process monitoring. With a hot-part approach, NeuBeam minimizes residual stress and streamlines powder removal, enabling customizable melt strategies suited to a range of materials.
According to the company, Wayland’s recent commercial success underscores NeuBeam’s effectiveness in industrial applications. Additionally, Head of New Technologies Martyn Hussey will present “Active Charge Neutralisation in NeuBeam Electron Beam PBF” on November 20, exploring advancements in build time, stability, and powder morphology.
AM-Flow introducing improved in-line quality control for precision manufacturing
Dutch 3D printing post-processing and automation company AM-Flow will launch its latest AM-QUALITY system, designed to provide precise, automated in-line quality control for traditional and additive manufacturing environments at booth H12.1, C19. With 50 μm accuracy, AM-QUALITY swiftly identifies production issues such as breakages, warping, and surface defects, allowing early corrections to maintain high standards.
Adapting seamlessly to diverse geometries, AM-QUALITY performs rapid OK/Not OK evaluations within a 5-second takt time, inspecting up to 720 products hourly. Utilizing eight high-speed Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), AM-QUALITY generates accurate 3D scans against digital-source files, delivering comprehensive assessments that enhance reliability across production lines.
Wabtec and Nikon SLM Solutions showcase enhanced rail component efficiency
Railroad equipment manufacturer Wabtec has enhanced the production and performance of its pantograph auto-drop devices by partnering with Nikon SLM Solutions, leveraging the SLM 500 machine for additive manufacturing.
With this move, the company achieved a 70% reduction in component weight, a 50% cut in production time, and a 30% performance boost due to improved airflow. By consolidating 17 parts into one, the redesign successfully minimized air leakage, boosts reliability, and reduces life cycle costs. Nikon’s experts provided essential technical support, overcoming challenges like cleaning internal channels. Visitors can meet Wabtec and Nikon SLM Solutions experts at Formnext to discover how additive manufacturing enhances rail efficiency and safety.
TRUMPF unveiling AM solutions to boost precision and efficiency in semiconductor manufacturing
German machine tool manufacturer TRUMPF will be presenting its advanced AM technology, aimed at enhancing efficiency and precision in semiconductor production. Through innovations like 3D printed fluid and gas manifolds, TRUMPF’s solutions help reduce scrap, streamline component integration, and minimize issues like pressure drops and flow-induced vibrations, ultimately improving machine performance.
For the semiconductor industry, where nanometer-level accuracy is essential, TRUMPF offers real-time quality tools, including Automatic Multi-Laser Alignment (AMA) and live melt pool monitoring, reducing the need for costly post-production tests. Visitors can explore TRUMPF’s updated AMA system, which provides faster, more precise adjustments, underscoring their commitment to high-performance manufacturing.
Creaform showcasing novel 3D scanning technology
3D measurement system manufacturer Creaform will display its advanced 3D scanning technologies at Hall 12.1, Booth F79. Showcasing models like the HandySCAN 3D|SILVER, BLACK, MAX Series, Go!SCAN 3D, and Peel 3D, Creaform will demonstrate how these portable scanners streamline workflows in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and consumer products.
From reverse engineering and product development to additive manufacturing, the scanners offer fast, accurate data capture. Powered by the VXelements software, these tools ensure high-quality results, improving part precision and production efficiency.
Fyous to display its PolyMorphic 28K molding system
Sheffield-based manufacturing startup Fyous will debut its PolyMorphic 28k, a novel high-speed mold-making system, at the tradeshow. Featuring a pin tool with 28,000 pins, it creates custom molds in around 20 minutes, operating 14 times faster than traditional 3D printing for comparable parts.
Offering 0.1mm precision and capable of withstanding six tonnes of pressure, it supports applications like vacuum forming, composite layup, and polyurethane molding. By using a 3D CAD model to adjust mold designs, there’s no need for mold storage, reducing costs and waste, according to Josh Shires, Co-Founder of Fyous. Demonstrations of the PolyMorphic 28k will take place at Stand 11.1, E48 from November 19-22, 2024.
Stratasys launching GrabCAD IoT platform for enhanced 3D printing management
3D printer OEM Stratasys is set to unveil its new GrabCAD IoT Platform, designed to streamline 3D printing operations and improve additive manufacturing productivity at Hall 12.1, Booth D121. Available initially for customers using GrabCAD Streamline Pro and PolyJet J3/J5 Series printers, the platform offers real-time data monitoring, enhanced remote diagnostics, and comprehensive fleet management.
Key features include data-driven insights, preventative maintenance capabilities, and a standards-based (MTConnect) approach to connectivity. By allowing for remote troubleshooting and efficient fleet oversight, the platform aims to reduce printer downtime and support proactive maintenance, reflecting Stratasys’ commitment to digital transformation and operational efficiency in additive manufacturing.
Berlin-based software company Trinckle is set to unveil the Additive App Suite, a platform designed to accelerate industrial 3D printing adoption through user-friendly design apps. This launch aims to streamline 3D printing integration across industries.
Building on the success of Fixturemate, this suite now includes three new apps, Robotic Finger App for custom robotic grips, Tray & Shadow Board App for tool organization and logistics, and Workpiece Creator App for easy 3D model creation. Trinckle is accepting applications for its beta program, inviting industrial users to explore the platform, provide feedback, and contribute to future app developments.
AMT highlights SFX Desktop Vapor Smoothing Machine milestone at Formnext 2024
Additive Manufacturing Technologies (AMT) will exhibit its SFX Desktop Vapor Smoothing Machine at Formnext 2024, celebrating over 150 installations since its launch in Q2 2024. Equipped with eco-friendly PURE Solvent, the machine emphasizes sustainability and high-quality automated post-processing for materials like PA12, PA11, and TPU, with additional options in development.
To mark this achievement, AMT introduced a special offer featuring discounted pricing and a year of free consumables for orders placed by December 13, 2024. The company also launched of Flex Software, an AI-driven tool for automating material processing recipes. This scalable, subscription-based platform enhances efficiency and supports diverse applications, furthering AMT’s mission to revolutionize additive manufacturing workflows.
Dyndrite and Nikon SLM Solutions announce collaboration at Formnext 2024
At the tradeshow, Dyndrite and Nikon SLM Solutions will announce a strategic partnership focusing on enhancing metal additive manufacturing through advanced software and hardware integration. The collaboration integrates Dyndrite’s LPBF Pro software with Nikon SLM Solutions’ open-architecture 3D printers, including the SLM 125, SLM 280, SLM 500, and NXG 12 laser systems.
This integration introduces several advanced features tailored to improve productivity and part quality. Scalable compute capabilities enable efficient handling of large build volumes, while advanced toolpath generation supports intricate geometries, such as thin walls and domes. Multi-laser coordination ensures optimal performance, while on-the-fly laser manipulation enhances build rates and precision. Low-angle support-free printing further expands design possibilities by reducing support material requirements.
By combining Dyndrite’s GPU-accelerated computation engine with Nikon SLM Solutions’ open architecture, the collaboration empowers manufacturers in aerospace, automotive, energy, and other industries to achieve faster production, improved surface finish, and scalable workflows.
Simone Castellani, Chief Technology Officer, Nikon SLM Solutions said, “Our combined commitment to open architecture provides customers with unparalleled access to capabilities that drive innovation, fast-track production, and maximize efficiency across the entire process. Ultimately, our customers benefit the most by reducing time-to-market and achieving lower end-part costs.”
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Featured image shows Formnext at Messe Frankfurt. Photo by Michael Petch.
