3DBGPRINT: Pioneering Additive Manufacturing Solutions and Driving Innovation in Bulgaria

Founded in 2013 by the visionary Yordan Angelov, 3DBGPRINT emerged from a clear and ambitious objective: to revolutionize the Bulgarian market’s understanding and access to cutting-edge 3D printing technologies. Leveraging his extensive background in marketing and sales within major software companies in Bulgaria, Yordan keenly identified the transformative potential of additive manufacturing. His goal was to establish a specialized consultancy that would not only inform and educate but also provide unparalleled access to these burgeoning technologies. Today, 3DBGPRINT stands as a leading force in the region, operating an impressive array of advanced 3D printers based on various sophisticated technologies—from robust extrusion-based FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) to high-precision photopolymerization methods like LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and PolyJet. This diverse fleet operates tirelessly 24/7, meticulously satisfying the intricate and evolving needs of a broad client base.

The global recognition of the immense benefits of additive manufacturing is rapidly expanding, leading a growing number of companies across diverse sectors to actively explore this technology for producing everything from intricate prototypes to robust, functional end-use parts. However, the substantial capital outlay required for investing in in-house 3D printing equipment, alongside the associated costs of maintenance, specialized materials, and skilled personnel, often presents a significant barrier. This is precisely why dedicated 3D printing service providers, such as 3DBGPRINT, are pivotal to the continued growth and accessibility of the additive manufacturing (AM) sector. They offer flexible, cost-effective, and expert-driven solutions, allowing businesses to harness the power of AM without the burdensome overhead. To gain a deeper understanding of 3DBGPRINT’s impactful journey, its operational philosophy, and how it is actively shaping the future of manufacturing in Bulgaria and beyond, we recently had the privilege of conducting an exclusive interview with its enterprising founder, Yordan Angelov.

The Genesis of 3DBGPRINT: Bringing Groundbreaking Technology to Bulgaria

3DN: Could you tell us more about the origins of 3DBGPRINT and how the company came into existence?

“We officially launched 3DBGPRINT in 2013 with an audacious vision: to actively inform, thoroughly educate, and ultimately enable the Bulgarian market to access advanced 3D printing technologies,” Yordan Angelov passionately explains. “At that juncture, these innovative processes were already developing at an impressive pace in international markets, yet their presence and understanding in Bulgaria were virtually non-existent. My professional foundation was firmly established in the software domain, making the transition to another technology-centric field like additive manufacturing a logical and exciting evolution for me. What we foresaw as the immense potential of 3D printing in Bulgaria was, at that particular time, not recognized or pursued by any other local entity. This realization sparked the creation of 3DBGPRINT – it wasn’t just a business venture; it was a profound challenge and an exhilarating adventure rolled into one.”

Yordan elaborates on their pioneering efforts: “We truly were among the first movers in this space. Our crucial initial step involved meticulously reaching out to, and engaging with, leading global 3D printer manufacturers. The objective was to forge strategic partnerships and formalize agreements that would enable us to introduce and effectively offer their cutting-edge products directly to the Bulgarian market. This foundational work was absolutely essential for building the infrastructure needed for widespread technology adoption. Following this, our second, equally critical step was to proactively address a glaring skills gap: the significant shortage of experienced and trained personnel in this nascent 3D printing sector. We understood that merely providing machines without skilled operators and designers would leave much of the technology’s potential untapped.”

To effectively address this critical shortage of expertise and cultivate local talent, 3DBGPRINT adopted a proactive and visionary approach. “We proudly established our dedicated 3D Academy in the vibrant city of Stara Zagora,” Yordan states with satisfaction. “It brings me immense joy and satisfaction to witness the progress we’ve made. Today, a multitude of universities across Bulgaria are not only actively utilizing 3D printing technology but have also commendably integrated it into their core academic programs, thereby preparing the next generation of engineers, designers, and innovators. The Bulgarian market for additive manufacturing is now experiencing rapid growth, with a continuously expanding number of companies actively participating in the 3D printing industry. This robust development is a powerful testament to the foresight and vision we held over a decade ago when we embarked on this pioneering journey.”

Advanced Technologies at Work: A Diverse Fleet for Every Client Need

3DN: What specific types of 3D printers and technologies are currently part of 3DBGPRINT’s operational fleet?

“Over the past three years, we have strategically invested in significantly expanding and diversifying our robust pool of 3D printers,” Yordan clarifies. “Our state-of-the-art fleet now comprises an extensive collection of over 20 Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers, alongside two powerful large-format LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) printers, and two highly specialized machines leveraging advanced PolyJet technology. What truly distinguishes our operation is the relentless efficiency with which these machines function: all of them operate continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This non-stop production capability is meticulously managed by a dedicated team of highly skilled operators, complemented by sophisticated automatic systems that expertly handle printer management, scheduling, and switching. This commitment to an always-on operational model allows us to achieve unparalleled maximum production capacity and deliver exceptionally faster turnaround times, consistently meeting and often exceeding our clients’ most demanding requirements for efficient, high-quality service.”

Yordan further details their FDM expertise: “The largest segment of our comprehensive printer arsenal is undoubtedly made up of FDM printers. This technology, celebrated for its versatility, robustness, and cost-effectiveness, enables us to produce remarkably large parts—components measuring up to an impressive 1 x 2 meters or even 1 x 1.5 meters. This capability opens up vast possibilities for manufacturing oversized components that would be challenging, if not impossible, with many other additive manufacturing methods. Furthermore, we take immense pride in our deep expertise in industrial-grade FDM printers, which are engineered to operate seamlessly with high-performance engineering materials. These include advanced thermoplastics such as PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) and ULTEM. These chosen materials are selected for their exceptional mechanical strength, superior heat resistance, and chemical inertness, making them perfectly suited for the most demanding industrial applications across a multitude of sectors, from aerospace to medical.”

He elaborates on the complementary technologies: “Our LCD printers, by contrast, are deployed when projects demand extremely high resolution and exceptionally smooth surface finishes, making them ideal for intricate prototypes, detailed models, and finely tuned functional parts. Meanwhile, our PolyJet machines excel in environments requiring multi-material and multi-color printing capabilities, providing unparalleled realism for design verification, anatomical models, and advanced functional prototyping. This strategic blend of diverse technologies ensures that 3DBGPRINT can always select the optimal printing process for each specific project, expertly balancing precision, desired material properties, lead time, and cost-efficiency to deliver the absolute best possible outcome for every client, regardless of their industry or complexity of demand.”

Maintaining a Competitive Edge in the Dynamic AM Market

3DN: How does 3DBGPRINT consistently ensure its competitive position within the rapidly evolving additive manufacturing market?

“Our primary competitive advantage is multifaceted, stemming from our unparalleled speed and efficiency in project execution, our extensive capability to work with a wide variety of advanced materials, and, crucially, our team of highly professional individuals who are recognized experts in the additive manufacturing industry,” Yordan confidently asserts. “We go beyond merely processing orders; we deliver comprehensive, tailored solutions powered by a deeply knowledgeable and experienced workforce. To consistently uphold this high standard, we meticulously build and continually strengthen our supply chain, collaborating exclusively with the industry’s most reputable and innovative material producers. For instance, our partnerships include distinguished suppliers like KIMYA, an established French producer renowned for its cutting-edge industrial materials, including advanced carbon fiber and nylon composites, as well as Fillamentum, highly regarded for its premium-quality filaments.”

He continues, “Another significant differentiator that sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to offering highly competitive pricing for our premium services, without ever compromising on the exceptional quality of our output or the speed of our delivery. We take immense pride in providing superior results with remarkably swift turnaround times, ensuring maximum value and satisfaction for our clients. To maintain our leadership position in such a rapidly advancing technological field, the experts at 3DBGPRINT undergo continuous, rigorous training and professional development. This commitment ensures that their qualifications remain not just current, but consistently exceed prevailing industry standards. Our overarching goal is to perpetually integrate the latest advancements and the most cutting-edge technologies available in the global 3D printing market. To achieve this, we embark on a complete renewal and upgrade of our printer laboratory every single year, guaranteeing that our capabilities consistently align with the dynamic requirements of the market and adhere to the most stringent high-quality benchmarks.”

This proactive and strategic approach allows 3DBGPRINT to not only meet but consistently surpass client expectations, adapting swiftly to new material developments, process innovations, and technological breakthroughs. By seamlessly combining strategic supplier partnerships, an intense focus on operational efficiency, and an unwavering commitment to quality and continuous learning, 3DBGPRINT firmly remains at the forefront of the additive manufacturing service sector, offering reliable, advanced, and forward-thinking solutions to industries far and wide.

The Additive Manufacturing Landscape in Bulgaria: Current Status and Future Trajectories

3DN: What is your comprehensive vision for the additive manufacturing market, especially within the specific context of Bulgaria?

“The Bulgarian market, while possessing a smaller geographical footprint compared to some of its Western European counterparts, is demonstrably and steadily embracing 3D printing technologies,” Yordan observes. “While the adoption rate might be characterized as ‘slow but sure,’ the progress and growing understanding are undeniable and highly encouraging. The positive news is that, having been actively engaged in this industry for over five years, we have accumulated extensive, invaluable experience. This includes our participation in, and the successful execution of, numerous training programs, often conducted in close and fruitful collaboration with our esteemed European partners. These international partnerships have been instrumental in bridging existing knowledge gaps, introducing best practices, and fostering a more robust and sophisticated understanding of additive manufacturing’s vast potential within the country. We firmly believe that with continued dedicated education and the provision of accessible, high-quality services, Bulgaria is exceptionally well-positioned for significant and sustained growth in this pivotal sector, gradually transitioning from an early adoption phase to a more widespread industrial integration and application.”

Despite its comparatively smaller size, the Bulgarian market presents unique and compelling opportunities for specialized applications and niche developments within additive manufacturing. This environment allows agile companies like 3DBGPRINT to become essential hubs of innovation and expertise. The ongoing focus remains on proactively educating local industries about the profound advantages that additive manufacturing can provide – including significant cost savings, enhanced operational efficiencies, and unprecedented design freedom. By illuminating these benefits, 3DBGPRINT actively assists businesses in unlocking entirely new possibilities for product development, customized solutions, and streamlined production processes, thereby contributing to the nation’s technological advancement and economic diversification.

Transformative Applications Across Diverse Industries: Where AM Makes an Impact

3DN: For which industries has additive manufacturing proven to be particularly beneficial, and how has 3DBGPRINT contributed?

Additive manufacturing, especially when powered by the versatile capabilities and expert solutions offered by 3DBGPRINT, has emphatically demonstrated its ability to be a transformative force across a surprisingly broad and diverse spectrum of industries. From the deeply creative realms of art and culture to the highly demanding and precision-critical sectors of medicine and automotive, the inherent ability to rapidly produce complex geometries, execute profound design customizations, and efficiently utilize advanced performance materials offers unparalleled advantages that traditional manufacturing methods often cannot match. This adaptability makes AM an invaluable tool for innovation and problem-solving across the modern industrial landscape.

Art and Culture: Bringing Creative Visions to Tangible Reality

“We are incredibly fortunate that our diverse and imaginative clientele consistently provides us with opportunities to engage in challenging, profoundly innovative, and truly modern projects within the expansive sphere of art and culture,” Yordan enthusiastically shares. “A recent highlight, for instance, involved printing intricate and highly detailed masks for the demanding cinema industry, where absolute precision and exacting aesthetic detail were paramount. One of our most emblematic and complex projects to date was commissioned for the prestigious Musical Theatre in Sofia, specifically for their captivating production of ‘The Bat.’ For this visually stunning play, we were tasked with 3D printing entire stage decors. This undertaking was monumental, necessitating the production of over 200 individual, intricate parts, all under an extremely stringent and limited period of time. To successfully meet this formidable challenge, we fully leveraged the immense power of our facility, strategically utilizing 10 printers operating at their absolute maximum capacity around the clock to achieve the desired targets, unequivocally demonstrating additive manufacturing’s remarkable capability in large-scale artistic and theatrical production.”

Yordan further emphasizes the profound cultural impact of their work: “Beyond the vibrant performing arts, the Balkan region is extraordinarily rich in both cultural and historical heritage. Consequently, we frequently receive inspiring requests to produce historically accurate and meticulously crafted sculptures for various educational institutions, including schools and universities. A particularly meaningful project involved the creation of a grand sculpture of Patriarh Evtimii for a school proudly named after him, located in the historic city of Veliko Turnovo, as part of their significant 50th-anniversary celebrations. For this important undertaking, we specifically selected the powerful large-format Builder Extreme 1000 printer, renowned for its exceptional ability to produce sizable, high-quality prints with impressive detail. The entire comprehensive process, encompassing the initial meticulous design and 3D scanning of existing references, through to the advanced printing phase and the meticulous post-production finishing, was completed in an astonishingly efficient timeframe of just seven days. This project powerfully showcases the immense speed, precision, and versatility of additive manufacturing in the vital work of preserving, recreating, and celebrating cultural heritage.”

Automotive Industry: Accelerating Design Iteration and Prototyping Excellence

“The application of 3D printing within the sophisticated automotive industry is remarkably broad and continues to expand at an exponential rate,” Yordan explains. “We have actively contributed significantly to this dynamic sector by producing numerous highly accurate prototypes of diverse automotive parts. This capability empowers manufacturers to rapidly iterate and refine their designs quickly and cost-effectively, long before committing to the often-prohibitive expense of traditional tooling. Our invaluable involvement has also extended to collaborating closely with prominent automotive producers on the innovative development of prototypes for new Bulgarian scooter models. This encompassing work includes everything from intricate dashboard components and aesthetically refined interior trim to highly functional elements rigorously tested for aerodynamics and ergonomics. Additive manufacturing’s inherent flexibility allows for swift design adjustments and comprehensive validation, thereby significantly shortening crucial development cycles and enabling the faster introduction of truly innovative vehicle designs to the eager market.”

The ability of 3D printing to create complex geometries without the restrictive constraints of traditional manufacturing, coupled with its capacity to utilize high-performance engineering materials, makes it an indispensable tool. It’s invaluable for crafting custom parts, producing jigs and fixtures that optimize assembly lines, and even driving lightweighting initiatives crucial for enhancing fuel efficiency and performance in the modern automotive sector.

Medicine: Precision, Personalization, and Pioneering Healthcare Solutions

“One of our most groundbreaking and emotionally resonant projects involved the precise 3D printing of a human rib, which was subsequently and successfully surgically added into the body of a patient here in Bulgaria,” Yordan recounts with immense pride. “This was not merely a unique and complex operation for Bulgaria but represented a truly significant achievement on a worldwide scale, pushing the very boundaries of medical innovation and personalized patient care. The custom-designed rib was meticulously produced using a 3DGence printer, employing an advanced American material: a specialized synthetic copolymer that is biologically compatible and rigorously approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for medical implantation. The surgical intervention proved to be a resounding success, with the patient experiencing no adverse side effects, powerfully underscoring the immense potential of truly personalized medicine in transforming lives.”

He further adds, “Another equally unique and profoundly impactful medical project we diligently undertook involved the production of a specialized orthopedic brace, or ‘tire,’ meticulously designed for the optimal immobilization of a broken arm. The inherent beauty and immense advantage of utilizing 3D printing technologies for this critical application lie in the unparalleled ability to create a medical device that is completely personalized to perfectly fit the patient’s unique anatomy. This ensures superior comfort, optimal support, and enhanced healing outcomes compared to generic, off-the-shelf casts. The innovative building material chosen for this orthopedic tire was Fillamentum, a high-quality, fully biodegradable material, which further highlights our unwavering commitment to developing sustainable and patient-friendly healthcare solutions. This extraordinary level of customization unequivocally marks a new and transformative era in advanced orthopedic care, where patient-specific needs are met with unparalleled precision.”

Dental Sector: Revolutionizing Orthodontics and Prosthetic Design

“We are also exceptionally active and making significant contributions within the rapidly advancing dental sphere,” Yordan reveals. “A prime example of our precision work includes the meticulous 3D printing of aligners, which are increasingly and effectively utilized to treat various complex jaw distortions. To date, we have successfully printed approximately 150 aligners of diverse sizes and intricate configurations, specifically designed to be used across different, individualized stages of orthodontic treatment. This sophisticated capability allows for highly customized and phased treatment plans, leading to significantly improved patient outcomes and enhanced comfort throughout the corrective process. Our impactful work in this specialized area involves crucial joint projects with leading professionals, most notably Dr. Branimir Kirilov, who is widely recognized as one of the foremost and most innovative dental practitioners not only in Bulgaria but across the entire Balkan region. This invaluable collaboration ensures that our 3D printed dental solutions meet the highest clinical standards and effectively address real-world dental challenges with cutting-edge precision.”

The inherent precision, remarkable speed, and cost-efficiency of 3D printing are fundamentally revolutionizing dental laboratories worldwide. This technology enables faster and more accurate production of patient-specific models, custom surgical guides, meticulously fitted crowns and bridges, and comfortable removable prosthetics, all precisely tailored to individual patient needs and anatomical variations.

Construction and Architecture: Bringing Blueprints to Life

“Our versatile and highly adaptable 3D printing capabilities have also discovered invaluable applications within both the architecture and construction industries,” Yordan explains. “We regularly 3D print exceptionally detailed models of buildings, which serve as indispensable tools for architects, property developers, and prospective investors. Additionally, we actively produce functional elements specifically designed for the construction sector itself. In the architectural realm, the critical need for clients and investors to vividly visualize precisely how a building will look, feel, and functionally operate, long before ground is even broken, is paramount. This is why we specialize in producing these intricate and detailed 3D models of buildings primarily using robust and reliable FDM technologies. These tangible models, often produced with our highly efficient Builder series printers, are not only remarkably accurate representations but are also offered at a highly competitive and accessible price point, making high-quality, physical visualization attainable for a much broader range of projects and clients.”

These physical, three-dimensional models provide a tangible and immersive representation that digital renderings, despite their sophistication, simply cannot fully replicate. They are instrumental in facilitating comprehensive design reviews, enhancing clarity during stakeholder presentations, and significantly boosting marketing efforts, ultimately streamlining the complex construction planning, approval, and sales processes.

Future Trajectories: Sustained Growth, Innovation, and Community Education

3DN: What are 3DBGPRINT’s strategic plans and aspirations for its future development?

“Our long-term development plan is both ambitious and profoundly multifaceted, centering on continuous, strategic investment in state-of-the-art machines and pioneering additive manufacturing technologies,” Yordan reveals. “We are firmly committed to further strengthening our already robust collaborations with our esteemed partners, many of whom are also leading global producers of advanced 3D printers. This deeper synergy is absolutely crucial as we have set considerably higher targets for the sales and distribution of 3D printers, not only across Bulgaria but also throughout the wider European market. Our aim is to significantly expand access to these truly transformative manufacturing tools. By remaining acutely aware of, and responsive to, the latest trends and groundbreaking innovations in the global 3D printing landscape, we are steadfast in our mission to consistently offer unparalleled high-quality services and products, always at highly competitive prices and with exceptionally fast execution times. Our ultimate goal is for 3DBGPRINT to be synonymous with reliability, cutting-edge solutions, and forward-thinking innovation in the entire additive manufacturing space.”

He elaborates on their profound commitment to sustainable growth and positive societal impact: “Looking further ahead, we will continue to strategically invest in the significant expansion of our operational facilities and the continuous diversification of our impressive fleet of printers. Furthermore, we intend to proactively explore and thoughtfully invest in other emerging types of additive manufacturing technologies, always guided by evolving market trends, specific client demands, and technological advancements. Crucially, a core and deeply ingrained component of our mission involves investing significantly in young talent and diligently training them to become highly skilled and proficient 3D printing specialists. This initiative is not solely for the direct benefit of our internal team but also represents a vital and integral aspect of our corporate social responsibility towards society at large. We actively engage with schools and universities, provide hands-on training programs, and frequently donate printers to educational institutions. All these efforts are dedicated to enthusiastically supporting and promoting the widespread adoption, deeper understanding, and sustainable growth of these groundbreaking new technologies. We firmly believe that by nurturing and empowering the next generation, we are actively securing the prosperous future of additive manufacturing for all.”

3DBGPRINT’s future strategy is clearly and strategically defined by continuous innovation, proactive market expansion, and a profound, unwavering dedication to educational outreach. This holistic approach ensures its enduring position as a vanguard and leader in the additive manufacturing industry, both locally within Bulgaria and on the broader international stage.

We hope you thoroughly enjoyed this insightful and comprehensive interview with Yordan Angelov from 3DBGPRINT. We invite you to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below, or join the ongoing conversation on our vibrant Facebook and Twitter pages! To ensure you never miss out on the latest advancements, breaking news, and expert insights in the world of additive manufacturing, be sure to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter, delivered directly to your inbox!