In spring, JEC World will open its doors to its new session. Well known worldwide as the leading trade exhibition for composite materials and their applications, this 60th session promises to be the only hub for business, inspiration and innovation in this sector.

Q-Big 3D’s innovative VFGF (Variable Fused Granulate Fabrication) process unlocks new possibilities in large-scale 3D printing, making the production of massive components both economical and efficient. Utilizing commercially available plastic granulate and a variable nozzle that adapts between turbo and detail modes, VFGF enables rapid production without the high costs and lead times.

Simulation in CAM has evolved from a visual aid to a core pillar of safe, efficient manufacturing. This personal deep dive traces its transformation — from the early days of 5-axis backplotting to today’s real-time collision avoidance and GPU-accelerated material removal. What has been achieved, what challenges remain, and what lies ahead?

The high-tech company Trumpf is supporting the aviation industry in its efforts to reduce greenhouse gases. With 3D printers and lasers, aviation companies can save a lot of weight in aircraft manufacturing and produce more efficient engines.

3D printing company Nano Dimension will use Formnext (Frankfurt, Germany, 19th -22nd November) to introduce new technology developments spanning software and materials as part of its ever-expanding AM and Micro-AM portfolio.

Voxeljet has expanded its High Speed Sintering (HSS) network to include production partner FKM Sintertechnik. Both companies are working together closely to further optimise the process parameters of the VX1000 HSS, the largest ink-based polymer 3D printer on the market.

Production solutions with robotic automation are on the rise: With their help, a fast and low-manpower flow of parts can be established within a site — thus reducing unit production costs and increasing production reliability and quality. In this example, Emag links pick-up machine technology with highly individual robot solutions designed within the requirements of the workpiece and the production process. What are important details?

Asahi Kasei and Aquafil have teamed up to create a groundbreaking material for 3D printing, combining Aquafil’s recycled Econyl Polymer with Asahi Kasei’s cellulose nanofiber. This eco-friendly compound offers exceptional strength and formability, ideal for automotive and aeronautical applications.

With Polygonica 3.4, Machine Works has released, the latest update to its software library for polygon mesh handling. With improvements such as seamless UV parameterization, enhanced Boolean operations, and optimized tools for medical imaging and manufacturing, the update aims to streamline workflows and solve complex geometrical challenges across various industries.

3D pellet printers are emerging as a complementary technology to traditional injection moulding, utilizing standard pellets instead of filaments. This approach offers potential cost advantages in material use and improved process stability.