A successful RAPID + TCT 2024 event with AM innovations on display

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Welcome to the recap of RAPID + TCT 2024, a monumental event filled with boundless excitement and groundbreaking innovations in additive manufacturing (AM). Held at the bustling Los Angeles Convention Center, this year’s expo united nearly 9,000 professionals from across the globe to explore the latest advancements in 3D printing and industrial AM. The event featured captivating keynote sessions, over 400 exhibitors showcasing impressive technology—from versatile 3D scanners to high-speed extrusion printers—and highlighted the transformative potential of AM in various sectors, including aerospace, medical, and entertainment. Notable moments included the unveiling of new products like the EXT 800 Titan Pellet and the Hollywood Showcase, which offered a stunning display of 3D printed assets from blockbuster films. The success of RAPID + TCT 2024 underscores the fast-evolving landscape of AM and its promise to revolutionize manufacturing industries worldwide. Have you ever wondered what the future of additive manufacturing (AM) holds? If you’re curious about the latest breakthroughs, emerging trends, and industry stars pioneering the way in 3D printing, then you’re in for a treat. The RAPID + TCT 2024 event was a resounding success, showcasing the most innovative advancements in the AM industry. Let’s dive into what made this event stand out and how it’s shaping the future of 3D printing.

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Table of Contents

Overview of RAPID + TCT 2024

The RAPID + TCT 2024 event was held from June 25-27 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. It was marked as the largest RAPID + TCT event to date, bringing together around 9,000 professionals from across the globe. Organized by SME and Rapid News Group, the event was a melting pot of industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts all eager to explore the transformative potential of additive manufacturing.

“The atmosphere at RAPID + TCT 2024 was exhilarating, with attendees from across the community engaging in vibrant discussions, forging new connections and celebrating the transformative potential of AM,” said SME Executive Director and CEO Robert “Bob” Willig.

Keynote Series and Sessions

Opening with Executive Perspectives

One of the highlights of the event was the daily Keynote Series, which kicked off with the Executive Perspectives session. This series featured industry leaders sharing essential insights on the future of additive manufacturing and discussing the challenges that could affect its broader adoption.

Technical Presentations

Beyond the main stage, the event featured 168 technical presentations focusing on specific AM applications. These sessions were invaluable for attendees seeking to deepen their understanding and broaden their knowledge of AM.

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Exhibitor Highlights

With over 400 exhibitors, the RAPID + TCT 2024 event was a treasure trove of innovative products and solutions. Prominent companies like 3D Systems, Big Rep, Stratasys, and HP were in attendance, showcasing their latest advancements.

Company	Product Highlight	Key Features
3D Systems	EXT 800 Titan Pellet	High-speed extrusion, spacious build volume
Big Rep	VIIO 250 and ALTRA 280	Automation, dual extrusion capabilities for large-scale components
Additive Industries	MetalFab 300 Flex	Adaptable build area for diverse manufacturing needs
Stratasys	J5 Digital Anatomy 3D Printer	Affordable, precise anatomical models

Material and Post-Processing Innovations

The event also featured significant innovations in material and post-processing technologies. For instance, XJet released the 17-4PH stainless steel aimed at industrial use, and Lithoz introduced the Ceramic 3D Factory for decentralized manufacturing. Addiblast presented the MARS04, designed for efficient de-powdering of large metal components.

Software Innovations

Software got its share of the spotlight too. nTop launched nTop 5, offering enhanced integration capabilities for greater design flexibility. Ai Build showcased AiBuild 2.0, featuring AI-driven tool-path generation and improved user accessibility.

Hollywood Showcase

One unique feature of this year’s event was the Hollywood Showcase, presented by Gentle Giant Studios and Direct Dimensions. This showcase highlighted the role of additive manufacturing in the film industry, featuring 3D printed assets from blockbuster franchises like Avatar and Star Wars.

Industry Acclaim and Awards

The RAPID + TCT 2024 event also recognized significant contributions within the industry through various awards.

Aubin Case Study Award

Andreas Vlahinos, PhD, from Advanced Engineering Solutions, won the Aubin Case Study Award for his patient-specific femoral implant.

AM Industry Achievement Award

Paul Gradl received the AM Industry Achievement Award for his groundbreaking contributions to NASA missions.

Digital Manufacturing Challenge

The Raffles Institution and the University of Waterloo took home honors for their achievements in high school and university categories, respectively.

AM Production Club Awards

Fabrisonic and Vivid Creative Aquatics were inducted into the AM Production Club at the 50K and 10K levels. Onulis won the AM Start-Up Technology Award for their WRAP Prime product, and 3D Solar clinched the second AM Pitchfest for their presentation on hybrid 3D printing in the automotive supply chain.

Looking Ahead: RAPID + TCT 2025

The excitement doesn’t end here. The next RAPID + TCT event is already slated for 2025 in Detroit. This upcoming event will run concurrently with SAE’s WCX and SME’s AeroDef Manufacturing, targeting the automotive and defense sectors.

Trends and Future Directions

Current Trends in 3D Printing

Industry leaders anticipate several key trends in 3D printing for the coming year. These trends include:

Increased Automation: More automated processes to reduce human intervention.
Material Diversification: New and improved materials for various applications.
Integrated Software Solutions: Better software for streamlined operations.
Sustainability: Focus on more eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

Future of 3D Printing in the Next Decade

Looking further ahead, 3D printing is expected to revolutionize multiple industries. Here are a few predictions:

Medical Sector: Custom prosthetics and bio-printing of organs.
Aerospace and Defense: Lightweight, robust components manufactured on-demand.
Automotive: Fully functional, 3D printed car parts and possibly entire vehicles.
Consumer Goods: Personalized products manufactured at scale.

Stay Updated

To keep abreast of the latest 3D printing news and trends, don’t forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow them on social media for regular updates.

So, are you ready to experience the future of additive manufacturing? Stay tuned for more exciting developments as the industry continues to evolve and break new ground!

Remember, whether you’re an industry veteran or a newcomer, there’s always something new to learn in the world of 3D printing. Let’s continue exploring, innovating, and growing together!

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