Oerlikon has started up the first ATLIX xBUILD 5000 at Huntersville, an LPBF printer with four 1 kW lasers and automatic build module changing, designed to reduce downtime between one production cycle and the next.

General Electric has patented a monitoring system for metal 3D printing that analyzes high-frequency oscillations of the light emitted during laser melting, separating them from the average signal, to detect defects in real time via machine learning.

In Q2 2026 the global 3D printing industry grows, but listed companies show mixed results. Amid price pressures, leadership changes and Chinese competition, the sector's growth is not fully reflected in the financial statements of public companies.

The additive manufacturing skills shortage risks leaving 2.1 million jobs unfilled in the USA by 2030. University of Tennessee and America Makes discussed training strategies to bridge the gap.

Virginia Tech is leading a $2 million project to create 3D-printed metal alloys that self-lubricate above 600 °C, leveraging controlled oxidation to generate low-friction layers without external lubricants.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory has patented a laser melting system that uses a digital mask to expose entire areas of the metal powder bed in parallel, replacing point-by-point scanning and reducing production times.

Morriston Hospital in Swansea has standardized a complete digital workflow for 3D-printed titanium thoracic implants, from CT to production. Six patients were treated without intraoperative modifications and without hardware failure during follow-up.

VulcanForms appointed Jeff Hemenway Chief Revenue Officer on September 18, 2026. The company aims to transform production capacity into long-term industrial programs, following its $220 million funding in January.

Addiblast MARS05 XL is an automatic depowdering system for large-format metal AM, capable of handling builds up to 7,000 kg and 1,375 × 1,375 × 1,700 mm. Enclosed chamber with ATEX design, two-axis movement, and programmable vibration.

Researchers at Washington State University used AI to 3D print NASA's GRCop-42 alloy with 80% less laser power. The method, based on a predictive model, could make the technology accessible to smaller laboratories and companies.

Addireen presents the third generation of the XH-M350G-2HR, a dual green laser LPBF system for pure copper. The upgrade focuses on productivity, optical stability, and uniformity in prolonged cycles, with a build volume of 350 × 350 × 550 mm.

The 3D printing sector grows in Q2 2026, but the results of publicly traded companies are uneven. Competitive pressure on margins and leadership, with SpaceX influential on Velo3D.