Formnext 2018 Highlights: 10 Additive Manufacturing Technologies to Watch

In just a few days, Frankfurt will host one of the world’s premier additive manufacturing events: Formnext. From 13‑16 November, the trade show will showcase the latest advances in AM, including cutting‑edge hardware, materials, and software solutions. The AMFG team is preparing its booth, but we’re equally eager to witness the industry’s newest breakthroughs. To help you navigate the event, we’ve compiled a top‑10 list of technologies you shouldn’t miss.

Hardware

1. HP’s new Metal Jet system
HP will debut its Metal Jet system in Europe for the first time. Building on its Multi‑Jet Fusion (MJF) platform, Metal Jet uses voxel‑level binder jetting to produce isotropic parts that meet ASTM standards. With a projected productivity boost of up to 50× over other AM methods, it promises faster, higher‑quality metal production.

2. Optomec’s LENS 860 Hybrid Controlled Atmosphere (CA) System
Optomec will showcase the LENS 860 Hybrid CA system, a hybrid metal AM platform that combines additive and machining capabilities. The 860 × 600 × 610 mm build envelope, 3 kW fibre laser, and hermetically‑sealed chamber allow rapid, cost‑effective fabrication of reactive metals such as titanium—all at a price under $250,000.

3. RepRap’s Liquid Additive Manufacturing (LAM) 3D printer
German maker RepRap will unveil the LAM L280 printer, a new technique that extrudes liquid or high‑viscosity materials (e.g., liquid silicone rubber) and cures them with heat. With a 280 × 280 × 200 mm build volume, the LAM L280 produces parts with properties rivaling or exceeding injection moulding.

4. Essentium’s High Speed Extrusion Platform
Essentium will present its High Speed Extrusion (HSE) platform, claiming tenfold speed and superior accuracy over existing extrusion printers. Leveraging FlashFuse technology, the 740 × 510 × 650 mm build envelope and 600 °C nozzle temperature enable industrial‑grade parts from BASF‑partnered Ultrafuse filaments.

Bonus: Stratasys’ latest developments, including metal 3D printing
Stratasys will feature its Fortus range, notably the Fortus 380mc Carbon Fiber Edition, and will reveal new metal AM solutions for the first time at Formnext.

Software

5. Sigma Labs’ upgrades to PrintRite 4.0
Sigma Labs will demonstrate enhancements to its PrintRite 3D 4.0 suite, including upgraded SENSORPAK hardware and INSPECT software. Real‑time melt‑pool temperature metrics and faster data processing aim to tighten quality control across metal AM processes.

6. Polygonica 3D Modelling Software (MachineWorks) Version 2.2
MachineWorks will launch Polygonica 2.2, featuring an automated mesh‑healing algorithm that produces watertight, print‑ready models without manual edits. Improvements to hole‑filling and offsetting will streamline complex geometry preparation.

7. nTopology’s Element lattice design software
nTopology will highlight Element, a lattice design tool that creates lightweight, high‑strength structures by strategically removing material while preserving shape—an approach distinct from traditional topology optimisation.

Bonus: AMFG’s post‑production solutions
AMFG will unveil new tablet‑optimised software that streamlines post‑production—from QA checks to scheduling—providing real‑time visibility and seamless workflow integration. Booth visitors can test the solutions on‑site.

Materials

8. Apium Additive Technologies Polypropylene (PP) material
Apium expands its P Series portfolio with a high‑temperature polypropylene material, broadening the range of industrial thermoplastics available for 3D printing.

9. Mitsubishi Chemical’s FDM material offerings
Mitsubishi Chemical will showcase a new line of sustainable FDM materials and demonstrate its giant Colossus printer, which will fabricate chairs live during the event.

10. Sandvik’s AM solutions and metal materials
Sandvik, a leader in gas‑atomised metal powders, will present its $25 million‑invested production facility and the Osprey powder line. The company will also display metal AM technologies, post‑processing methods, and real‑world case studies.

Meet AMFG at Formnext 2018

This year’s Formnext promises cutting‑edge hardware, software, and materials. Join the AMFG team at Hall 3, Stand F68 to explore our new post‑production management solutions. We look forward to welcoming you!