FormNext 2024Layer by layer

With over 864 exhibitors, Formnext offered a comprehensive view of the 3D printing landscape—

from small, affordable consumer printers to industrial-scale metal SLM systems.
The technological diversity showcased the industry's evolution, innovation and challenges.

A shifting landscape and growing pains

The additive manufacturing sector is experiencing both growth and challenges. While the number of exhibitors has risen slightly, some medium-sized companies from last year have not returned, highlighting the industry's volatility. However, such challenges are part of its natural evolution.

Companies with a strong foundation and clear vision continue to thrive, underscoring the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in this developing field.

Industrial 3D Printing: From micro-components to rocket engines

Metal additive manufacturing impressed with applications from micro-gears to full rocket nozzles. Despite the growing potential of 3D-printed rocket parts, practical use remains distant.

Boston Micro Fabrication's precise micro 3D printing was a standout innovation, underscoring the potential for detailed industrial and medical applications.

Fused Deposition Modeling: from hobby to industrial

The Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology advanced across all scales. Notably, high-end consumer printers, influenced by companies like BambuLab, introduced user-friendly interfaces and polished designs.

A strong focus on better interfaces, enhanced ease of use, and polished design signals a shift—3D printers are no longer just tools but designed products created with both form and function in mind.

FDM x CNC

Hybrid solutions combining FDM printers and CNC milling machines, such as those used for carbon fiber mold production, highlighted new paths for large-scale applications. A smart approach to broadening the application of additive technologies, adding precision and versatility where needed. This evolution shows how 3D printing is becoming a more essential part in complex manufacturing systems.

Collaborative growth

The growing synergy between 3D printer manufacturers and software providers stood out. These collaborations are essential in refining workflows and enhancing the integration of additive manufacturing into diverse industries. The future of AM is not only driven by hardware advancements but also by the innovative software solutions that streamline design and production, emphasizing the importance of both components in driving industry progress.

Missed trends and the road ahead

While innovative, Formnext 2024 lacked some anticipated breakthroughs. For instance, non-planar printing—which offers enhanced structural integrity and surface were conspicuously absent. Such gaps highlight the industry's focus on refining existing technologies over introducing radical new ideas.

3D printing continues to mature as a complement to traditional manufacturing. With innovations like open-source systems (e.g., Prusa CORE ONE) and smarter AI-driven tools, the industry is poised for a future where accessibility, design, and scalability define success. While we may not have witnessed groundbreaking revolutions this year, the incremental advancements on display hold great promise for long-term impacts, particularly in precision engineering and healthcare applications.

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Navigating waters of progress