Preparing and linking data, processes and systems precisely is the common thread for sustainably successful additive manufacturing (AM). "This is a complex topic with many levers. It begins with the identification of parts for which additive manufacturing is suitable, continues with the specific design and safeguarding of processes with tried-and-tested tools and extends to the use of new technologies such as blockchain. We will be presenting innovative solutions in this range at the Software, Processes & Design forum. The central selection criterion for the presentations was that users have their say and present the best examples from practice for practice," emphasize Dr. Guido Adam, Head of Design at DMG Mori Additive, and Dr. Martin Holland, member of the Prostep Executive Board. The AM experts are responsible for the content of the forum, which takes place on June 23. It is part of the Rapid.Tech 3D trade congress, which is being held exclusively digitally this year due to the pandemic and is dedicated to the guiding principle of sustainability.

Uwe Schulmeister from Toolcraft is presenting a new process combination. The company with expertise in metallic 3D printing has added a powder nozzle (LMD) to its powder bed technology (L-PBF). This allows the range of AM applications to be extended from layer build-up and hybrid construction methods to the application of complex contours. Erik Schröder from Trumpf explains how components are identified for metal 3D printing, how design freedom opens up new solutions in additive manufacturing and which criteria need to be taken into account for series production. The effects that can be derived from the simulation of various production scenarios for the holistic design of automated AM production will be the subject of Fabian Tieck's presentation from 3D printing system manufacturer EOS. Marvin Krecht from Weidmüller Interface and Andreas Hoppe from SLM Solutions will demonstrate the protection of know-how using blockchain technology in additive manufacturing using an example from control cabinet construction.

AM has been exploiting advantages such as design freedom and resource efficiency in tool, model and mold making for years. It is about tools that can be used to achieve significant added value - unlike components. Current applications are on the agenda in the Tool, Pattern and Mold Making Forum at the Rapid.Tech 3D Congress on 22 June. "We have deliberately focused on practical examples and will show how AM solutions promote sustainable economic efficiency in tools and the production process," says Dr. Eric Klemp, Managing Director of 4D Concepts, who is responsible for the program.

Ingrid Prestien from 3D printing service provider Cipres talks about the right balance of individuality and standardization for outstanding products and the development of efficient and sustainable AM production - especially in the daily work of SMEs. In particular, she will be talking about resource management and material savings. Lucas Adler from Hermle Maschinenbau will discuss how such already possible savings can be exploited even further with additive manufacturing. He will present MPA technology and examples of its use in toolmaking. In this process, various powdered materials can lead to graded tool properties. This allows the properties in the component to be changed locally and in a targeted manner.

In addition to the Software, Processes & Design and Tool, Model & Mould Making forums, the program of the Rapid.Tech 3D Congress also includes the tried-and-tested sessions Automotive & Mobility; Aviation; Medical, Dental & Orthopaedic Technology; AM Science and the Fraunhofer Forum Competence Field Additive Manufacturing. With the AM in Construction & Architecture and News from AM forums, two further subject areas will be added this year.