Formnext 2017: A Landmark Showcase for Additive Manufacturing Innovation

Last week, Frankfurt’s Formnext returned, larger and more dynamic than ever. Over four days, more than 20,000 visitors explored the latest advancements in additive manufacturing, while 470 exhibitors—from aerospace to medical and automotive—offered solutions for every need. Below is a snapshot of RP Platform’s experience and the standout technologies that shaped the event.

First Impressions

The breadth of this year’s exhibition was striking. OEMs, software firms, and post‑processing specialists all converged on a single floor, complemented by a series of talks that unpacked current trends and future visions in additive manufacturing.

Formnext: A Success for RP Platform

RP Platform proudly showcased its platform’s newest features for the second consecutive year. The fair offered an ideal venue to demonstrate how our software streamlines workflows, from automated quotations to integrated email and production‑management tools.

Head of Business Development Felix Doerr highlighted the event’s impact:

“Formnext is unmatched in scale and industry expertise. We engaged with customers, prospects, partners, and machine manufacturers, even initiating projects on site. We’re eager to present next year’s results.”

Key Highlights

While the exhibition covered a vast array of technologies, the following standouts deserve special mention:

Post‑Processing Automation

Automation’s role in post‑processing dominated discussions. Companies showcased systems that reduce manual labor, including:

• Klaeger – German firm offering sawing systems such as the VBS600 and Bitron300.
• Additive Manufacturing Technologies – Sheffield‑based company presenting its patented PostPro3D solution for polymer part finishing.

Emerging Metal 3D Printing Technologies

Metal printing’s rapid evolution was on full display, featuring:

• Renishaw’s RenAM 500Q – a four‑laser system pushing the boundaries of part quality.
• Markforged Metal X Printer – offering unprecedented build speeds for metal parts.
• Desktop Metal Production System – a complete workflow including printer, debinder, and sintering furnace; projected to be 100× faster than typical DMLS solutions.
• Additive Industries MetalFAB1 – a modular system with a 420×420×400 mm build volume, integrated heat treatment, and automated part removal.

SLS, FDM, and SLA Innovations

Notable advancements included:

• SondaSys – debuting its first SLS printer with an interchangeable chamber and real‑time monitoring interface.
• Dynamical Tools DT600 – a new FDM machine with plans for an upcoming SLS model slated for April 2018.

Other highlights included HP’s Jet Fusion 3D 4210, ACEO’s multi‑silicone technology, and Texel’s portal 3D scanner.

Final Thoughts

Formnext 2017 reaffirmed its status as the premier event for additive manufacturing. It showcased cutting‑edge applications, fostered vital industry connections, and set the stage for future innovations. For RP Platform, participating in this influential gathering was both an honor and a catalyst for continued growth. We eagerly anticipate the next edition of Formnext and the breakthroughs it will unveil.

Stay tuned for our upcoming spotlight series on key exhibitors and consider subscribing to our newsletter for the latest industry news and event updates.