Formnext 2023 closed its doors with a strong showing that underscored the resilience and momentum of the additive manufacturing sector. The event drew 859 exhibitors, 60% of them international, covering industries from medical to transport and defense. Attendance reached 32,851 visitors, an 11.1% increase over 2022, with fifty more exhibitors than the previous year. Across four halls, the breadth of technology on display reflected both maturity and diversification in the market.
One of the most prominent themes was the rise of hybrid manufacturing solutions. More manufacturers are integrating additive processes with machining or other conventional methods, seeking all-in-one systems that can switch tool heads quickly or incorporate robotic arms. This approach reinforces the complementary nature of additive manufacturing, positioning it as part of a broader production ecosystem rather than a standalone process.
A notable example was HoliMaker’s HoliPress, a manual injection press that melts plastic granules and injects them into molds, including those produced via 3D printing. This synergy between molding and additive techniques was echoed across the show floor, with growing interest in pellet-based 3D printing. The number of dedicated pellet machine manufacturers has increased, reflecting a shift toward versatile material input options.
Materials innovation was another focal point. Exhibitors showcased filaments, powders, resins, silicones, and ceramics, but machines for material characterization drew particular attention. Powder analysis tools, essential for ensuring particle size and shape consistency, were well represented. Dr. André Klicpera of Microtrac MRB emphasized, “3D printing is one of the biggest sectors where we are seeing the need for this work since both size and shape of the particles is so important for quality control. This is used for metals, polymers and even ceramics. And we are just seeing the demand grow and grow. Research and development as well is a major field for this type of work.” Such capabilities are critical for powder recycling and sustainability efforts.
Printing speed emerged as a competitive frontier. Large-format systems from companies like BigRep and Hage3D stood alongside micro-printing solutions from UpNano, but desktop FDM machines regained attention, particularly those offering faster output. Bambu Lab’s high-speed models attracted crowds, while Creality introduced a new rapid-printing machine. Polymaker’s PolySonic™ PLA filament was designed specifically for high-speed applications. On the industrial side, Stratasys unveiled the F3330 extrusion system, boasting double the speed of comparable models, multiple extruders, a redesigned head movement mechanism, and a substantial build volume of 600 x 600 x 800 mm.
Artificial intelligence also had a visible presence. While the term appeared frequently, genuine applications stood out. Automation Acoustics from Australia presented sensors that detect defects in 3D printing by analyzing machine sound signatures, a technology built on seven years of data from DED and WAAM processes. In software, PRINT&GO demonstrated AI-driven error detection and data collection aimed at improving machine behavior understanding, streamlining workflows, and boosting productivity.
Application-specific solutions were more prominent than ever. The automotive sector featured a dedicated area organized with Daimler, showcasing production-ready parts. Medical applications were well represented, with exhibitors focusing on healthcare innovations. Defense and aeronautics also received emphasis, reflecting additive manufacturing’s strategic role in high-performance, mission-critical domains.
Local production initiatives gained visibility, with country-specific zones highlighting technologies from the Nordic nations, USA, Australia, Canada, South Korea, and China. Industry users stressed the importance of local partnerships for both social and environmental reasons, aligning with broader sustainability goals.
Despite geopolitical tensions affecting global markets, the event demonstrated that additive manufacturing remains dynamic and growth-oriented. Some exhibitors scaled back their presence, but others expanded, and new participants committed to the show. The diversity of technologies, materials, and applications at Formnext 2023 reinforced its position as a pivotal gathering for the industry.