Formnext 2022: Unveiling the Future of Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Innovations

Formnext, the world’s leading exhibition and conference for additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing, returned in 2021 after an 18-month hiatus enforced by the global pandemic. That edition saw nearly 18,000 visitors exploring the booths of approximately 606 exhibitors, ranging from established manufacturers and resellers to innovative start-ups and other key players across the additive manufacturing ecosystem. Fast forward to 2022, and the anticipation for Formnext is palpable. Even before the doors officially open, the event boasts an impressive roster of over 800 registered exhibitors, a significant increase from the previous year, and an expansive event space spanning more than 50,000 m². The previous year’s travel restrictions prevented many US and Asian exhibitors and visitors from attending, but with the easing of global entry regulations, this year promises a truly international gathering. Beyond the post-pandemic resurgence, the organizers of Formnext recognize the deeper reason for this remarkable growth: additive manufacturing (AM) is experiencing an exponential surge in popularity across all industrial sectors, its inherent advantages becoming increasingly evident to businesses worldwide. The excitement is immense, both among visitors eager to discover the latest advancements and exhibitors ready to unveil groundbreaking products and services. We’ve taken an in-depth look at some of the innovations that are set to define Formnext 2022 and shape the future of industrial production.

Formnext’s Resurgence and Evolving Focus

Examining the history of Formnext reveals its robust performance prior to the pandemic. The 2019 edition was exceptionally strong, attracting 852 exhibitors and nearly 35,000 attendees, setting a high benchmark before pandemic regulations temporarily curtailed its growth. Last year, the primary focus of Formnext revolved around crucial themes such as repeatability and process automation, particularly in the context of 3D printing solutions designed to deliver both higher productivity and distinct reliability in quality for the end-user. This year, however, Formnext 2022 broadens its horizons significantly, placing a strong emphasis on emerging trends and critical growth areas. Key topics receiving considerable attention will include the vibrant landscape of start-ups and investment within the AM sector, highlighting new opportunities and disruptive technologies. Additionally, the event will delve into the transformative applications of additive manufacturing in construction and architecture, showcasing how 3D printing is revolutionizing design and building processes. Decentralized manufacturing, a concept gaining traction for its resilience and efficiency, will also be a major point of discussion, exploring how AM enables localized production capabilities. Furthermore, Formnext 2022 proudly welcomes France as its official partner country, fostering greater collaboration and showcasing French innovation within the additive manufacturing industry.

Revolutionary Products and Services at Formnext 2022

As Formnext solidifies its reputation as one of the most vital and largest additive manufacturing events globally, it’s no surprise that leading AM players strategically choose this platform to unveil their latest innovations. This includes everything from cutting-edge printers and advanced software to high-precision scanners and much more. With some companies already teasing their breakthroughs ahead of the event, we can now offer a preview of several highlights that visitors will be able to explore in greater detail during their time at Formnext. One thing is certain: prepare for a splash of color, among other exciting developments! Mimaki, a company renowned in the additive manufacturing world for its expertise in 3D color printing, has announced the exciting launch of its new material, Pure Clear Ink MH-110PCL. This groundbreaking transparent material stands out for its complete lack of yellow tint, making it exceptionally suitable for a diverse range of professionals, including medical experts, architects, product designers, and even artists who require pristine clarity in their 3D printed objects.

Continuing on the subject of newly presented materials at Formnext 2022, the Italian company Roboze will also be showcasing a new product designed with sustainability at its core. This innovative material is engineered to significantly reduce CO2 emissions generated throughout the entire production process, aligning with the growing demand for eco-conscious manufacturing. Its intended applications are particularly impactful across critical sectors such as mobility, energy, aerospace, medicine, and general industry, promising a greener future for high-performance additive manufacturing.

Groundbreaking Hardware: Printers and Integrated Systems

Beyond materials, Formnext 2022 will, of course, feature indispensable presentations of new machinery that are set to redefine manufacturing capabilities. In the dynamic field of metal 3D printing, EPLUS 3D is poised to introduce its latest metal 3D printer, a formidable large-format multi-laser machine. What makes this particular innovation incredibly exciting is its substantial build space, measuring an impressive 1258 x 1258 x 1350 mm³. Coupled with a total of nine laser systems working in unison, this machine is engineered to significantly contribute to the efficient production of large-scale metal parts, some extending to several meters in size. This addresses a critical need in industries requiring larger components with the precision and complexity offered by additive manufacturing.

For those focused on resin-based solutions, Zortrax will be showcasing its highly anticipated “Powerful Trio,” a comprehensive resin 3D printing and post-processing ecosystem. This integrated system includes the advanced Zortrax Inkspire 2 UV LCD 3D printer, complemented by the Zortrax Cleaning Station and the Zortrax Curing Station. This trio offers a streamlined workflow from printing to final part, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency. The new 3D printer, specifically developed for demanding medical applications, will also be presented alongside new, specialized materials designed to meet stringent industry standards.

HP had already generated considerable buzz in the run-up to this year’s Formnext with the strategic announcement of its entry into the metal 3D printing market. The company’s new metal 3D printer, dubbed the Metal Jet S100, is touted by HP as contributing to “the industry’s most advanced commercial solution for mass production of metals in 3D printing.” This move by a major tech giant like HP signifies a significant validation of metal AM’s potential for high-volume manufacturing, promising to accelerate adoption across various industrial sectors. The Metal Jet S100 focuses on enhancing productivity and economic viability for metal parts production, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in industrial additive manufacturing.

Also awaiting visitors at Formnext 2022 is the highly anticipated presence of Swiss 3D printing manufacturer Sintratec. The company is set to debut its new selective laser sintering (SLS) system, a significant advancement in polymer powder bed fusion technology. Sintratec asserts that this high-tech module incorporates a laser three times more powerful than previous generations. Named the Sintratec S3, this system is specifically engineered to deliver substantial improvements in terms of speed and overall production times, addressing critical bottlenecks in industrial SLS applications. In addition to this powerful new hardware, the Swiss manufacturer will also unveil a brand new SLS material, promising enhanced material properties and broader application possibilities, alongside other innovative products at this year’s Formnext exhibition.

The Crucial Role of Post-Processing in Additive Manufacturing

But what would the highly advanced field of additive manufacturing be without efficient and reliable post-processing solutions? The transformation of a raw 3D print into a functional, finished part often hinges on effective post-processing, and Formnext 2022 will certainly not disappoint in this area. Visitors can expect to see a wealth of new developments in post-processing technologies, particularly at the exhibitor stand of the German post-processing technology company AM Solutions, a proud brand of the Rösler Group. The company has announced that it will introduce two additional groundbreaking machines during Formnext 2022: the M1 Basic and the C1. These systems are specifically designed to streamline and optimize post-processing workflows in additive manufacturing, ensuring parts meet stringent quality and surface finish requirements. They will be showcased alongside four other key technologies from AM Solutions, collectively expanding the company’s comprehensive range of post-processing machines and offering manufacturers a broader suite of solutions to complete their additive manufacturing production chains efficiently and reliably.

Engaging Conferences and Dynamic Competitions

As is customary each year, Formnext will also host a series of high-quality conferences featuring renowned speakers from diverse industrial sectors. These experts will share exciting insights, groundbreaking research, and practical impressions on the latest developments in additive manufacturing with a captive audience of visitors. This year, attendees can look forward to hearing from leading figures representing major companies such as PepsiCo, JACK WOLFSKIN, and Honda, among others, who will take to the stage to discuss how AM is impacting their respective industries and shaping future strategies. The complete and detailed schedule for these insightful sessions can be found HERE.

Beyond the intellectual exchange of the conferences, visitors absolutely should not miss the individual events and stimulating challenges taking place during Formnext 2022! One such highlight is the Purmundus Challenge, celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. This prestigious event is an international design idea competition specifically tailored for industrial-level 3D and 4D printing applications. It serves as a vital platform for showcasing innovation, pushing design boundaries, and recognizing excellence in additive manufacturing. Another event that promises a wealth of excitement and potential is Pitchnext. Here, promising start-ups in the AM space are given the stage to demonstrate their capabilities, articulate their unique value propositions, and explain why they represent compelling investment opportunities. Through concise and engaging pitches, attendees can gain immediate insights into these nascent companies and explore potential collaborative ventures, fostering the next generation of additive manufacturing leaders.

Formnext 2022 is undoubtedly poised to be a landmark event, cementing the rapid advancements and growing maturity of the additive manufacturing industry. From cutting-edge material science and powerful new printing hardware to integrated post-processing solutions and invaluable industry insights, the exhibition offers an unparalleled view into the future of production. The enthusiasm surrounding this year’s Formnext clearly underscores the transformative impact that additive manufacturing continues to have across global industries. Will you be attending Formnext 2022? What specific innovations or discussions are you most eager to explore? Let us know your thoughts in a comment below or engage with us on ourLinkedIn,Facebook, andTwitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weeklyNewsletter here to receive the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also sign up to our special Formnext newsletter HERE for targeted updates about the event. Furthermore, all our informative videos are available on ourYouTube channel.