Additive manufacturing: Giving industry a boost

(Erfurt, 04 February 2025). Additive manufacturing (AM) has the power to boost your industry. The keynote speakers at the 21st edition of rapid.tech 3D will examine how the customised use of additive technologies can propel industry forward – from civil and military aviation to Formula 1 and even everyday manufacturing. 

MTU Aero Engines: Getting more cost-effective AM components off the ground in the aviation industry

Additive processes have long been used in aviation, but still on a comparatively small scale. In addition to long development times and rigorous approval processes, this is primarily because the cost of printed components generally remains too high. Significantly reducing these costs is the key to encouraging more widespread use of AM in the aviation industry. In the first keynote of the conference, Dr Karl-Heinz Dusel, Senior Manager Additive Manufacturing Technology at MTU Aero Engines, will explain that there are many possible ways to achieve this. He will also highlight the advantages of creating completely new component designs with AM and how these can be used to make future aircraft engines even more economical, cleaner and quieter. These factors are all the more important in light of the bounce-back in commercial air traffic following the Covid-19 pandemic, and the simultaneous need to reduce the industry’s environmental impact. As the industry moves toward zero-emission flights, it needs new propulsion concepts, including component designs that go right back to the drawing board. AM is a key enabler in this.

BWT Alpine Formula One Team: Getting up to speed with AM

In Formula 1, speed and innovation are the difference between winning and losing, both on and off the track. Over 25 years, the BWT Alpine Formula One Team, as it is now called, has continuously expanded its use of additive technologies. Today, AM is present in almost every aspect of their vehicles, with current race models featuring over 200 printed components. In his keynote speech on day two of the congress, Pat Warner will report on how additive manufacturing has reshaped technology in Formula 1 and is driving performance and innovation. The team’s advanced digital manufacturing manager will also be giving the audience an exclusive look behind the scenes of Formula 1 racing.

Roland Berger: Automation in the AM factory

Also speaking on day two of the congress is Max Schaukellis, Senior Project Manager at Roland Berger, who will explore the technical solutions and success factors required to achieve innovative production in the automated AM factory. Using case studies and real-world examples, he will detail a range of successfully implemented applications that have enhanced production efficiency, precision and scalability. Key topics will include the integration of robotics, AI-controlled process optimisation and real-time monitoring systems. Schaukellis, who has research and industry experience in 3D printing, among other things, will also discuss how critical “non-technical” factors – such as strategic planning, cross-departmental collaboration and continuous innovation – are as essential to success as the technology.

Turkish Aerospace: Additive manufacturing in the defence sector

Dr Remzi Ecmel Ece, Director of Additive Manufacturing/Executive Vice President Aerostructures at Turkish Aerospace, is scheduled to open the third and final day of the congress. He will provide insights into the company’s activities and developments with additive manufacturing in the defence sector.

The other sessions in the rapid.tech 3D conference programme will offer various opportunities to explore the keynote topics in greater depth. Simply come along to our user-driven trade forums to learn more: Aerospace; Mobility; Chemistry & Process Engineering; Electronic Engineering & Components; Energy Technology & Hydrogen; Innovations in AM with two focus areas – Defence and Medical; Software, AI & Design; VDMA AM4industry; and the quality-approved AM Science forum. Visitors can also look forward to product and service demonstrations as well as small group discussions in Hall 2 – at the exhibitors’ stands or on guided Technical Deep Dive tours, at the Expert Tables, and at the AM Science Poster Slam in the hall.

Messe Erfurt also invites you to the first edition of Quantum Photonics on 13 and 14 May 2025, which is taking place in parallel with rapid.tech 3D from 13 to 15 May 2025. Quantum Photonics is geared toward researchers, developers and engineers in computing, communications, imaging and sensor technology, as well as related fields such as medicine, life sciences, chemistry, mobility and finance. The technology and applications for additive manufacturing and quantum technologies intersect at numerous points, generating valuable synergies.