The global additive manufacturing (AM) industry was once again brought to Frankfurt by Formnext 2022, transforming the German city into the global hub of the largest 3D printing exhibition in the world, over the course of four days.
The exhibition saw attendees from 96 countries with a high proportion of international visitors (51%) and exhibitors (58%), demonstrating its status as the leading trade fair for the industry with advanced production technologies.
Now into its eighth year, Formnext 2022 featured 802 exhibitors as compared to 606 in the previous year and a total attendance up by 66% compared to 2021, virtually being on par with pre-COVID levels.
The show featured leading international companies and prominent corporations with several world premieres and developments including novel AM technologies, new and improved AM machines, as well as innovative software solutions, new materials ranging from ceramics to wood, post-processing solutions, service offerings, and more. Visitors were taken through an entire gamut of supporting events such as 3D printed houses, cutting-edge applications in medical technology, and innovative startups.
Mimaki Europe, a leading manufacturer of inkjet printing, cutting, and 3D printing technologies unveiled its new Mimaki Pure Clear Ink MH-110PCL that has been developed to increase accuracy of high-quality 3D models. A collection of 3D specialist and renowned Japanese artist Taketo Kobayashi’s vivid, intricate works was displayed at Mimaki’s stand as part of the ink’s visual demonstration.
Formnext 2022 also featured some of the most amazing 3D printers, from hybrid solutions to DUPLEX 3D printers, mini binder jetting machines, and much more.
As always the international Formnext Start-up Challenge recognized young AM companies for their business ideas and technical developments. Pitchnext, where start-ups competed for attention of investors, once again kept the visitors enthralled. Another popular event, tailor-made for newcomers to AM, was the Discover3Dprinting seminars which will be held throughout 2023 at various locations.
Sascha F Wenzler, Vice President at Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH, the organizers of the event says, “We are proud of the fact that Formnext has returned to its impressive pre-COVID level. We have once again shown the importance of Formnext as the world’s premiere AM platform and the vital role it plays in promoting face-to-face interaction for the further development of this highly innovative sector.”
Formnext 2022 was held from 15-18 November, 2022.
