The additive manufacturing sector is experiencing a shift: from growth based on volumes to a strategy focused on margins, vertical specialization, and operational optimization. Companies like Materialise demonstrate how consolidation and attention to profitability, rather than expansion, can guarantee positive cash flows and solid financial positions, even

The TCT Awards 2026 highlight the growing role of additive manufacturing in strategic sectors such as aerospace, defense, and automotive, with projects that integrate optimized structures, advanced materials, and cross-sector collaborations.

Hybrid metal-polymer FDM extrusion allows printing parts with metallic properties using composite filaments, without complex post-processing. It combines ease of use and safety, reducing costs and production times. Ideal for rapid prototyping and production of complex metal components in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and tooling.

3D printing is revolutionizing the development of hypersonic vehicles, reducing costs and production times. Programs like the Pentagon's HyCAT focus on rapid and reusable test platforms, such as Hypersonix's DART AE demonstrator, entirely 3D printed. Additive manufacturing allows for complex geometries and the use of advanced materials resistant to high temperatures, accelerating

HP MJF Technology revolutionizes industrial production, enabling flexibility, lead time reduction, and digital warehousing. Ideal for sectors such as aerospace, defense, medical, and data centers, it allows for on-demand production of custom components, improving supply chain resilience and reducing costs. Integration with traditional processes and the use of advanced materials make

Titanium recycling is strengthening the security of US supply chains, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. IperionX, with its closed-loop model, produces recycled titanium for the defense sector, improving efficiency and strategic self-sufficiency.

The defense industry is betting on production self-sufficiency with 3D printing and material recycling. The partnership between 6K Additive and AGF Defcom introduces US-made metal powder for defense components, reducing waste and external dependencies. A circular system based on waste recycling lowers costs and environmental impact, responding to national security needs and to

In-process inspection based on calibrated measurements is revolutionizing quality control in metal 3D printing, replacing expensive post-production checks with precise, proactive monitoring during the process. Technologies like structured light fringe projection allow for real-time measurement of critical parameters such as layer thickness and surface roughness, mi

Australia is using additive manufacturing to build more resilient public infrastructure, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening local production thanks to collaborations between research, industry, and government.

The advanced metal industry is evolving towards integrated production systems, where every stage of production collaborates in real time. Overcoming the traditional model of isolated departments, a connected architecture emerges that unifies additive, machining, heat treatment, and inspection. This approach reduces inefficiencies, improves stability and productivity, and enables a rapid response p

The article presents an operational plan to integrate innovations in mechanical testing and quality assurance in the advanced industry, particularly in metal additive production. The importance of qualifying feedstock, machinery, and production processes from the initial stages is emphasized to ensure reliability, traceability, and compliance in critical sectors such as aerospace and defense. Ve

Prusa launches PETG Ultraglow, a high-quality phosphorescent filament. Superior to glow-in-the-dark PLA for brightness and durability. Ideal for technical and safety applications thanks to the resistance of PETG and its ability to shine for a long time. Requires hardened nozzles for printing. High cost but justified for professional use.