3D ADEPT MAG · January / February 2023

Download the 2023 January/February edition of 3D ADEPT Mag

Download the 2023 January/February edition of 3D ADEPT Mag

Funding matters throughout the year. This first issue of 3D ADEPT Mag for 2023 explores solutions for two groups: founders who bootstrap their businesses and those who seek external funding.

However, funding alone cannot replace solid ideas and viable technologies. This issue therefore challenges the claims made for technologies often presented as miracle solutions. It examines their current strengths and the areas that still need work.

First, we explore metal and multi-laser AM, ceramics and artificial intelligence. We then look at infiltration, coatings and high-performance materials. Throughout the issue, automotive and aerospace applications provide the practical context.

Exclusive features

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Dossier

Understanding the complexities and opportunities of Multi-Laser Additive Manufacturing

Fans of Star Wars and laser games share an enthusiasm for lasers and speed. Similarly, more lasers in an industrial 3D printer can sound appealing. But do they necessarily bring more speed and agility? Additive Industries and Kennametal help us explore the opportunities and limits.

AM Shapers

A look at the strategy that enables General Atomics Aeronautical Systems to reach beyond 75% of 3D printed parts in an aircraft.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems has saved millions of dollars in tooling through industrial AM. It now shares the lessons from that journey. For example, a lamination mill fixture made with Thermwood delivered $50,000 in savings.

Software

Is AI the “magic word” designed to make your product design less boring?

Software companies often use AI as the main selling point for “miracle” products. However, product designers should examine these claims carefully. Does AI improve performance, or simply make a product sound more appealing? To explore that question, the CEOs of nFrontier and 1000 Kelvin GmbH discuss AI in AM software. They also assess the gap between theory and practice.

Applications

Can ceramic AM add value to the automotive and aerospace industries? From R&D to commercial applications.

Healthcare offers strong growth potential for ceramic AM. Indeed, it was an early adopter and remains a major market for additive manufacturing. Aerospace and automotive also offer important opportunities. So where can ceramics add value alongside the AM processes already used in these sectors? Lithoz, Xjet and Novadditive contribute their perspectives.

Events

Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace, Defence, & Space

Defence iQ’s Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace, Defence, & Space conference is returning for its ninth iteration at the Hilton London Wembley, UK from 22-23 February. The organizer sheds light on what to expect for this 9^th edition.

35 years of AMUG: the how and the why of a volunteering commitment that pushes the AM industry forward

Meanwhile, the 2023 edition of AMUG will be held at Hilton Chicago, from March 19 – 23, 2023. In particular, President Mark Abshire discusses what makes this organization outstanding.

Business

The investment landscape is changing. What should founders consider to grow their AM business? (Part 1)

Capital is becoming harder to secure. Founders therefore need to understand the changing investment landscape and adapt their plans. AM Ventures and Stifel discuss how founders can seek funding and grow an AM business.

Bootstrapping vs Fundraising: How Makelab successfully navigates a labyrinth of uncertainties. (Part 2)

Founders who fund their own companies face different constraints from those with outside investors. This conversation therefore compares both paths. Drawing on Makelab’s experience, it describes the challenges of bootstrapping. It also offers options for founders building their businesses.

Materials

(Critical) Challenges raised and solved by high-performance polymers for AM – Key examples in the automotive industry.

Metals often dominate discussions about AM growth. However, polymers remain a widely used material group across applications. For example, aerospace, automotive and biomedical companies are exploring printed parts made from high-temperature polymers. Yet barriers to series production remain. Evonik and Daimler discuss these challenges through automotive examples.

Unbounding 3D printing at scale with new sustainable materials

Evonik describes its approach to sustainability in this exclusive feature. The company argues that transparency should begin early in the additive value chain. In turn, this can help sustainability efforts have a greater impact on the final application.

Post-processing

Understanding the infiltration and coating processes for Additive Manufactured parts

A 3D printed part must perform well, whether its main advantage is low weight or low cost. Often, that performance depends on its surface. Choosing the right post-processing method is therefore essential. This article explains infiltration and coating processes, including their role after printing.