MT Magazine March/April 2026

THE RISE OF PURPOSE DRIVEN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING AM IS FLOURISHING AS A POINT SOLUTION, TAKING OVER SELECT APPLICATIONS WHERE IT TRANSFORMS BOTH PARTS AND PROCESSES. by Kevin Bowers | 12

ADDRESSING ADDITIVE by Douglas K. Woods | 01

INVESTMENT SIGNALS A MATURING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING MARKET by Abbey Knoepfel, Ph.D. | 19 IMTS 2026 EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP EMPOWERS SUCCESS by Michelle Edmonson | 26

AN

PUBLICATION

MARCH/APRIL 2026 THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE VOLUME 5 | ISSUE 2

1

A VIEW FROM THE WOODS

MARCH/APRIL 2026

Addressing Additive The ISO/ASTM 52900 standard, “Additive manufacturing – General principles – Fundamentals and vocabulary,” was released in 2015. Think about that: Just over 10 years ago, the standards were codified for what was, and still is, this fast developing technology. Conversely, the ISO 286 standard

While finding skilled personnel is always a challenge, the Maker Movement – which took DIY and supercharged it with digital tech, collaboration, and innovation – has produced thousands of “makers” well-versed in AM. These people, as well as young engineers, simply see AM as another way to make things. And they may ask, “Why wouldn’t you use additive?” Reasons can range from a lack of internal experience to the overall productivity that can be achieved, and that’s a question that needs to be considered more frequently than it often is. I don’t mean to suggest that companies across the board should go out and buy an AM system – after all, with its seven categories and a nontrivial number of processes within each, deciding what type to get is a challenge. One helpful tool is the service bureau, a third-party company with an array of machines and expertise to help determine whether a part lends itself to AM production – from the standpoints of both materials and volumes – and then produce a limited run of that part. The service bureau can help you figure things out without a capital investment. Another challenge for companies producing AM process equipment and materials is greater commonality and consistency across those processes and materials. What you offer must meet your customers’ requirements. The benefits of AM are great. It can more readily produce parts that optimize topology, sometimes called biomorphic design – adding material for strength where it’s needed and eliminating where it isn’t. It is organic and effective. AM can also add different types of materials for mechanical or thermal characteristics. While AM-created parts can look fluid rather than prismatic, it can be a better solution for your customer. But the nonuniformity within processes and materials is an issue AM companies need to address. The first commercially available 3D printer came on the market in 1987, roughly 130 years after the first commercially available milling machine and 35 years after the first machining center. So while it isn’t brand new, it is much younger than the tools the industry has long used. Work remains to be done in the AM space, but it is being undertaken and can benefit a nontrivial number of manufacturing companies that haven’t deployed these important tools – yet. Choosing AM or subtractive isn’t an either-or question. Each offers advantages, and to be competitive, the answer is likely “both.”

for subtractive manufacturing tolerances is one of the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) earliest standards. ISO was established in 1947, so we’re talking the better part of a century. To say that additive manufacturing (AM) is still young, especially for standardized manufacturing processes and practices, is to greatly understate the case. What’s more – or actually less – when it comes to metal removal operations, things are comparatively simple. The vast majority of operations can be described as the tool moving (milling) or the workpiece moving (turning). This is not to overlook grinding, EDM, laser cutting, or other processes, but you can go into any shop anywhere in the world and undoubtedly see, and easily understand, milling and/or turning. With AM, things are a bit trickier. According to ISO/ASTM 52900, there are seven AM categories, each with their own advantages and modes of operation: • Vat photopolymerization What’s more – and this is really more – is AM’s array of materials. In the subtractive world, 6061 aluminum is 6061 aluminum; it all machines the same. But in AM, there are often differences. Some AM materials are process-specific, including polymers and metals; the materials are often proprietary and may not conform to ASTM or ISO standard grades. Now, all of this may sound like I am not in favor of AM. That is absolutely not the case. By the sixth day of IMTS 2014 – The International Manufacturing Technology Show, a functioning car was built with AM on the show floor. At IMTS 2026, we will have an expansive Additive Manufacturing Sector. AM can be an important, beneficial tool for manufacturers – one that can provide advantages over competitors. As mentioned, the AM space has been tremendously active over the past few years, with much of the attention on the business aspects – companies coming, companies going. But let’s put that aside. Impressive work has been performed on the chemistries of the materials, application equipment, sensors, processors, and controls in AM. This makes the tech more robust and accessible. • Material extrusion • Powder bed fusion • Material jetting • Binder jetting • Directed energy deposition • Sheet lamination

Douglas K. Woods President AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology

3

MT MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

MARCH/APRIL 2026

Masthead

Editorial Team Kristin Bartschi Director, Marketing & Communications kbartschi@AMTonline.org

Executive Team Douglas K. Woods President dwoods@AMTonline.org Travis Egan Chief Revenue Officer tegan@AMTonline.org Becky Stahl Chief Financial Officer bstahl@AMTonline.org Christopher Kasmark Chief Information Officer ckasmark@AMTonline.org

Technology Ryan Kelly VP, Technology rkelly@AMTonline.org Intelligence Kevin Bowers VP, Research kbowers@AMTonline.org Smartforce Catherine Ross Director, Community Engagement cross@AMTonline.org Advocacy Amber Thomas VP, Advocacy athomas@AMTonline.org International Ed Christopher VP, Global Services echristopher@AMTonline.org Sales Mike DiFranco VP, Sales & Media mdifranco@AMTonline.org Membership Bill Herman VP, Membership bherman@AMTonline.org

Kathy Keyes Managing Editor, Content kwebster@AMTonline.org Dan Hong Writer/Editor dhong@AMTonline.org Jacob McCloskey Senior Graphic Designer jmccloskey@AMTonline.org

Tiffany Kim Graphic Designer tkim@AMTonline.org

Hailey Sarnecki Graphic Designer hsarnecki@AMTonline.org

IMTS

M

E

O

C

Michelle Edmonson VP, Exhibitions medmonson@IMTS.com

E

B

Want to learn more about AMT membership? To learn how to make the most of your AMT membership, email us at membership@AMTonline.org.

Bonnie Gurney VP, Strategic Partnerships & Industry Relations bgurney@IMTS.com

R JOIN AMT

Mark Kennedy Senior Director, Exhibitor Services mkennedy@IMTS.com Allison Konczyk Senior Director, Exhibitions Operations akonczyk@IMTS.com

E

B

A

M

M

E

AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology 7901 Jones Branch Dr. Suite 900, McLean, VA 22102-3316 Tel: 703-893-2900 | Fax: 703-893-1151

T

o

n

d

g

s i

a

y

e

’ s

D

M

&

e

d

g

i

n

c

r i

a

l

u

t

D

c

e

a

c e M a n u f

v

e l

o p m

e

Manufacturing Group

n

a

t

s

p

s

o

r

e

A

s

n

o

D

i

i t

e

f

n

e

u

n

M

s

e

&

Make the Most of Your IMTS 2026 Investment

IMTS 2026 Post-Show Issue ▼

IMTS 2026 Show Issue ▶

October 2024 DefenseAndMunitions.com

A CATALYST for Defense Nikon AM’s cutting-edge technology for scaling the defense industrial base.

MITUTOYO’S SM1008S Non-Contact Line-Laser Sensor

OKUMA’S ORL-D – Okuma Robot Loader - Drawer

TORMACH’S Mist Collector, Through Spindle Coolant Kit

IMTS 2026 Pre-Show Issue ▲

IMTS 2026 Product Preview ▲

IMTS 2026 Quick Guide ▲

Offering you visibility before, during, and long after the show ends.

GET THE COMPETITIVE EDGE

Russ Warner Sales Director 216.393.0293 | RWarner@gie.net

Andrew Nicholas Regional Sales Manager 216.393.0316 | ANicholas@gie.net

Patrick Roberts Regional Sales Manager 216.393.0265 | PRoberts@gie.net

5

MT MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

MARCH/APRIL 2026

Table of Contents

Click See what’s trending

07

Manufacturing Matters Get details on the latest industry news

09

AMT Upcoming Events Important manufacturing technology dates and events to bookmark

11

The Rise of Purpose-Driven Additive Manufacturing by Kevin Bowers

12

Investment Signals a Maturing Additive Manufacturing Market by Abbey Knoepfel, PhD

19

The Big Picture AM Market: Exploration to Focused Execution

24

IMTS 2026 Exhibitor Workshop Empowers Success by Michelle Edmonson

26

Precision With Purpose: Driving Digitalization in Manufacturing and Forensics by Travis Egan

28

On the Road Again

30

by Stephen LaMarca

Exploring the Trade Data on Additive Manufacturing Machinery by Chris Chidzik

32

COVER DESIGN Jacob McCloskey | Graphic Designer

INFOGRAPHIC DESIGN AM Market: Exploration to Focused Execution Hailey Sarnecki | Graphic Designer

MT Manufacturing Technology (ISSN # 2836-2896), March/April 2026, Issue 2, is published bimonthly by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, 7901 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 900, McLean, VA 22102. Periodicals postage paid at Merrifield, Virginia, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to MT Manufacturing Technology at 7901 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 900, McLean, VA 22102.

To manage your subscription, contact Elissa Davis at edavis@AMTonline.org.

DATE: January 28-30, 2026 | LOCATION: Fort Worth, TX An exclusive event for NTMA’s Chapter Leadership. This event has a targeted group of registrants. Chapter Leadership Summit provides a great opportunity to get in front of and personally meet our Chapter Executives, Chapter Presidents, and Trustees (also member company owners and Presidents). This event will help maximize your connections at the local level. Anticipated Attendance: 60-75 People

2026 NTMA CALENDAR OF EVENTS Please contact Kristen Hrusch, our Events Manager for more information and to register: Kristen Hrusch - Krusch@ntma.org 216.264.2845 or visit www.ntma.org/upcoming -events www.ntma.org/events

DATE: April 27-29, 2026 | LOCATION: Grand Rapids, MI NTMA gathers the best and brightest up-and-coming industry leaders to network, share knowledge and brainstorm about tomorrow’s manufacturing industry. Since this event targets the younger generation, they may be more receptive to newer technologies and processes. Build and grow your relationships with these industry influencers and be top of their mind. Anticipated Attendance: 100-150 People *NTMA has invited industry associations to partner for this event. Partnering associations will be: AMT, NFFS, AGMA and TMA.

DATE: September 14-19, 2026 | LOCATION: Chicago, IL This is the perfect place to showcase your product and any new technologies. NTMA will be hosting a luncheon to a targeted audience during IMTS that will allow our National Associates the opportunity to showcase new products and/or technologies. Anticipated Attendance: TBD

* Events Subject to Change*

DATE: November 10-13, 2026 | LOCATION: Las Vegas, NV NTMA’s signature event! Targeting Presidents, Owners and C-Level professionals for endless networking and learning opportunities. Anticipated Attendance: 150-200 People

7

CLICK

MARCH/APRIL 2026

Click MT Magazine is more than just paper pulp and ink. Explore our content on AMTonline.org and engage with discussions on a wide array of topics affecting manufacturing technology now.

Finding Certainty in Uncertainty in Manufacturing in North America AMT Vice President – Research Kevin Bowers joined the “People B4 Machines” podcast to discuss smarter automation, AI adoption, taking a strategic approach to reshoring, and navigating uncertainty by building resiliency rather than chasing the illusion of certainty.

AI Reshapes Manufacturing: Practical Use Cases, Economic Tailwinds, and Why Leaders Should Act Now Artificial intelligence has moved beyond hype. At the recent AMT Winter Economic Forum, attendees explored real-world use cases, the investments driving demand, and the business opportunities available to manufacturers with this technology.

Additive Manufacturing in Aerospace: Applications, Materials & Trends From jet engines and airframes to satellites and in-orbit manufacturing, aerospace 3D printing is changing how components are designed, built, and supplied. This article explores where AM is delivering real performance gains today, the materials and processes making it possible, and the trends driving its rapid adoption.

Medical 3D Printing: Applications, Types, and FDA Guidelines Additive manufacturing is used for its rapid production, complex geometries, and customization to produce health care products, including implants, surgical tools, and anatomical models. Learn where this fast-evolving technology is making the biggest impact, what works (or doesn’t), how it’s used at the point of care, and what lies ahead.

Must Love Dogs (and 3D Printing) Their passion for pets and obsession with technology took them from the basement to Times Square. This episode of the IMTS+ Original Series “Passion Project” features the story of how 3DPets leveraged additive manufacturing to create custom prosthetics and mobility devices for pets.

Sca t lear m visi AMTonlin . /event /am -meetup

9

MANUFACTURING MATTERS

MARCH/APRIL 2026

Manufacturing Matters Check in for the highlights, headlines, and hijinks that matter to manufacturing. These lean news items keep you updated on the latest developments.

TECHNOLOGY Additive Makes Markets

Additive manufacturing doesn’t just improve how we make things – it changes what we can make and who can make it. By removing tooling constraints, lowering startup costs, and enabling rapid design iteration, additive opens the door to products, business models, and markets that didn’t exist before. It empowers manufacturers to serve ultra-low-volume, high-complexity, or customized niches that traditional methods can’t reach profitably. Whether it’s aerospace, medical, or industrial MRO, additive turns capability into opportunity. For forward-looking shops, it’s not just a tool – it’s a ticket to new markets.

INTERNATIONAL 3D Printing as a Solution to Global Supply Chain Disruptions

Additive manufacturing has emerged as a powerful solution to global supply chain disruptions. Traditional manufacturing relies heavily on centralized production and international shipping, making it vulnerable to delays caused by pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters, and port congestion. In contrast, 3D printing enables decentralized production, allowing companies to manufacture parts closer to the point of need. Instead of waiting weeks for overseas shipments, businesses can produce components on demand using digital design files. This reduces transportation costs, shortens lead times, and lowers the need for large inventories. As global markets and international trade continue to face uncertainty, AM provides flexibility and resilience. By shifting from physical supply chains to digital ones, companies can respond faster to market demands while reducing risk and dependency on distant manufacturers.

SMARTFORCE Shape the Future, Layer by Layer

The Smartforce Career Pathways program at IMTS helps you grow your workforce pipeline with precision. Just like additive manufacturing, it starts with a solid base: your entry-level jobs, internships, or apprenticeships. Then we help you build visibility layer by layer by placing your opportunities on digital displays at the Student Summit in front of over 15,000 students and educators, on the Smartforce section of IMTS.com through the end of 2026, and in the Smartforce Newsletter that hits 7,000 inboxes every month. Visit IMTS.com/smartforce/careerpathways to learn more. In the meantime, grow your network and social capital with AMT Meetups, coming this spring to Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. With our partners at the National Tooling and Machining Association and Women in Manufacturing, these regional events connect professionals from across verticals in a casual, high-impact, and fun setting. Registration opens soon at AMTonline.org/events.

10

MANUFACTURING MATTERS

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

ADVOCACY Manufacturing Remains in Focus in Washington

To start the year, the White House and Congress are continuing a manufacturing-first push to rebuild the defense industrial base. Enacted last December, the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act reinforces that direction by prioritizing investment in the foundational manufacturing inputs that underpin defense readiness, including machine tools, castings, forgings, and advanced manufacturing equipment. One notable step is the creation of a Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network, modeled after the Civil Reserve Air Fleet, designed to better integrate commercial manufacturers into defense planning and ensure rapid access to production capacity during national emergencies. AMT is actively engaging with administration officials as this approach takes shape. On the funding side, congressional appropriations track with these priorities, directing resources toward munitions, shipbuilding, and industrial base programs that send clearer demand signals to manufacturers. Together, these actions reflect a growing recognition in Washington that lasting defense strength depends on sustained investment in America’s manufacturing backbone – not just finished systems but the machines and capabilities that make them possible.

INTELLIGENCE Where Momentum Meets Investment

The story of manufacturing in 2026 is not one of caution – it is one of acceleration. December closed with the highest monthly manufacturing technology orders ever recorded, capping a year in which manufacturing technology orders reported to the U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders program finished more than 22% above 2024 totals. After a period of adjustment, the fundamentals are strengthening in tandem: Manufacturing productivity in the third quarter of 2025 climbed 3.3% from its 2022 low; durable goods orders through November 2025 ran nearly 8% ahead of last year, and the ISM Purchasing Managers’ Index has surged back into expansion territory at 52.6 in January. Capital flows tell an equally compelling story. Net exports of capital goods have averaged more than $18 billion in recent months, reflecting strong global demand and renewed momentum in U.S.-produced equipment. At the same time, trillions of dollars in investment commitments announced by the Trump administration – including $1.6 trillion tied to companies engaged with IMTS – signal a substantial reinvestment cycle forming just over the horizon. If even a modest share of those commitments translates into capital spending, the result would be billions of dollars in additional annual equipment investment – enough to rival, and potentially nearly double, recent machine tool order levels. The momentum is not speculative; it is measurable, and it is building.

Durable Goods Orders Rolling 12-Month Percent Change (vs. Previous 12 Months)

10%

8%

6%

4%

2%

0%

-2%

-4%

Jul-25

Jul-24

Jan-25

Jun-25

Oct-25

Jan-24

Jun-24

Mar-25

Apr-25

Oct-24

Mar-24

Apr-24

Feb-25

Sep-25

Dec-25

Sep-24

Feb-24

Nov-25

Dec-24

May-25

Aug-25

May-24

Nov-24

Aug-24

Source: U.S. Census Bureau: M3 Reports

11

WHAT’S HAPPENING

MARCH/APRIL 2026

AMT Upcoming Events Learn more or register at AMTonline.org/events. Your datebook will thank you.

UP NEXT

AMT WEBINAR 2026 AMT Spring Economic Webinar April 14, 2026 | Online Tune in for the latest manufacturing technology market forecast from Oxford Economics. The event will also include an outlook for IMTS 2026, insights from AMT’s research department, and an overview of customer and industry trends to help plan for a successful year.

MTFORECAST MTForecast 2026 October 14-16, 2026 | Schaumburg, Illinois

AMT MEMBER MEETUPS

AMT Member Meetups are regional gatherings of the AMT community. These free events bring together diverse perspectives from every corner of the supply chain to help manufacturing communities grow and innovate. Stay tuned for more dates for upcoming AMT Member Meetups.

MTForecast offers attendees the latest economic and global forecasts, manufacturing technology market insights, and information on new opportunities and challenges. Learn from the actual experts about the pitfalls and opportunities shaping manufacturing technology over the next few years.

CHICAGO, IL: May 5, 2026 CINCINNATI, OH: May 7, 2026 MILWAUKEE, WI: June 2, 2026 MINNEAPOLIS, MN: June 4, 2026

IMTS IMTS 2026 September 14-19, 2026 | Chicago, Illinois

Events & Media Sponsorship

Looking for an all-access pass to an audience of manufacturing technology OEMs and distributers? Look no further! AMT offers event sponsorship opportunities that get your brand in front of your key audience.

The largest manufacturing trade show in the Western Hemisphere returns to Chicago! Find new equipment, software, and products to move your business forward, connect with industry experts and peers, and attend conference sessions to boost your industry knowledge.

E !

E R

U T H

S

O

E

Y

E

The Rise of Purpose Driven Additive Manufacturing AM is flourishing as a point solution, taking over select applications where it transforms both parts and processes. These applications are scattered across the industry, and some companies are succeeding by emphasizing AM’s value in these targeted wins. BY KEVIN BOWERS VICE PRESIDENT — RESEARCH What is the role of AM? That is, among manufacturing processes overall, where does additive fit? It is a simple question with significant importance. Right now, we see increasing clarity about the answer to this question reshaping the additive manufacturing landscape.

FEATURE STORY

14

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

The role of additive manufacturing might be described as point solutions. It is the transformative process for applications well-suited to additive, and these applications are scattered across different industries. (Image courtesy of EOS.)

a solution for end-use production – particularly when a part was designed with additive in mind. From this recognition emerged the additive manufacturing technology space as we know it today, comprising 17 distinct 3D printing processes, as defined by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, capable of providing production solutions across metal, polymer, composite, and ceramic materials. Yet there is an all-or-nothing sense to many of additive’s production wins: AM succeeds in some applications, while it is a poor fit for many others. When it does succeed, the success tends to be so total that we see a fade-out of the previous version of the product or the way it used to be made. The acetabular cup for hip surgery perfectly illustrates this. Until recently, in the production workflow for these implants, machining the form was separate from spraying the rough coating that integrates with the patient’s bone. AM eliminates the need for thermal spray due to the 3D printed part’s surface geometry, which is tailored to bone growth. The results have been transformative. By enabling both easier manufacturing and better design, additive has taken over acetabular cup production to such an extent that this method is no longer considered novel or necessarily promoted as an innovative use case. At EOS, a laser powder bed fusion AM technology supplier,

Focused, Powerful Wins Part of the work of the AMT Research Services group is ongoing monitoring and analysis of news developments about additive manufacturing – not just watching for breakthroughs, but also watching trends. Today, we are observing how a single broad trend in additive manufacturing unites and explains much of the recent AM news. That trend relates to the way AM adoption is not necessarily going wide but narrow and deep, with targeted adoption instead. AM is finding its place within focused production areas, where its impact is seen in both the end part and the process to create it. These niche applications are not necessarily connected, but what they have in common is that additive is able to produce them nearly complete. We see this theme of additive thriving within focused applications reflected in recent news of both AM’s advances and its retreats.

From Prototyping to Transformative Production

For context, consider the question again: Where does additive fit? Over a decade ago, industry found a new answer. What had been primarily a technology for prototyping and some tooling (two applications that remain important) also became

FEATURE STORY

an employee shares his story of having his hip replaced: When his doctor discussed the procedure with him, the employee informed the unaware doctor that the hip implant had been made via AM – in fact, the EOS employee recognized the implant brand and had been involved in the equipment sale. So, where does additive manufacturing fit? Here is part of the answer: It fits in your hip. But more than that, we see the emphasis on very focused, high-impact applications like acetabular cups driving various recent developments in AM. In a sense, we have now entered the time of purpose-driven additive manufacturing. The Retreat of Broad and the Rise of Narrow Previously, in recognizing additive’s use for production, many companies went to market with broad, production ready additive manufacturing platforms. The additive space became competitive. Another challenge these providers face is that their approach to marketing additive technology relies on AM users to find, prove, and qualify additive wins – and persuade their customers to adopt them. These challenges, competitiveness, and the need for adopters to develop and champion its uses have presented persistent headwinds for companies selling AM technology. As a result, some companies are leaving this space or reevaluating their services, including some well-known manufacturing equipment providers. For example, Trumpf, a successful machine tool maker, recently divested its additive manufacturing business in a sale to the DUBAG Group, which it relaunched as a standalone company named Atlix. And Arburg, the successful injection molding machine provider, announced it will withdraw fully from its additive business segment. In these cases, the model of selling industrial machines broadly to a spectrum of manufacturers did not align well with how additive manufacturing is being adopted. But then, conversely, recent successes demonstrate where additive technologies fit. Fabric8Labs, for example, offers a highly focused AM platform. The company recently announced significant investor support to expand production capacity using its proprietary 3D printing system for copper to make thermal management components in servers, among other electronics industry applications. As with acetabular cups, Fabric8Labs’ technology improves both performance and processing of these server components. Far from a broadly applicable solution, Fabric8Labs offers a narrow but transformative win for data center hardware. Another example of a focused win is solid-fuel propulsion system components. These systems rely on parts made from high-temperature materials, such as tungsten-rhenium alloys, that have historically been produced through extremely difficult machining or specialized powder metallurgy processes with extended lead times. But additive offers a flexible, responsive, cost-effective way to work with the difficult metals. Companies like Ursa Major, Materials Resources LLC, and others have announced major backing for the further development of their

FEATURE STORY

16

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

AM capabilities for solid-fuel propulsion parts. This is support not for the general promise of additive, but for a needed and transformative additive win. Watching the Point Tally This “purpose-driven” model is one of the ways we see recent developments, and it is a framework we will continue to evaluate as we view future developments. Additive manufacturing might now be seen as a point solution, flourishing wherever it connects with an application that is so right for it that there is no way back once additive succeeds. Such applications generally feature some combination of challenging materials, geometric complexity, manufacturing simplification, and cost or time savings – so that additive delivers some set of these advantages all at once. Most parts and most applications do not offer this kind of opportunity. But in those applications that seem “made for additive,” additive pours in to practically fill the opportunity space. Today’s most successful AM technology providers seem to be those that have found, or are finding, these applications. That is, they are the providers of purpose-driven AM for additive manufacturing’s point solutions. Fortunately for additive, these point solutions seem to be plentiful. We mentioned a few: acetabular cups, server cooling systems, and solid-fuel rocket parts. Add to this list: spine implants, spacecraft components, firearm suppressors, and dental aligners. The points add up. In the months to come, and more so in the years to come, we

should watch for the advance of additive manufacturing to take this form. Some wins will lead to adjacent wins in the same space. But the larger steps in AM adoption will come point by point as additive finds new, targeted, breakthrough successes. As the list of wins today suggests, these applications are not necessarily connected. One win does not predict where the next win will be found. Instead, each technology advance in any of the 17 additive processes might offer the final step needed for a new transformative application. Additive will advance in this way as one new application after another comes to light, redefining the possibilities and offering the winning choice from that point forward. Tracking these wins is part of the ongoing work of AMT’s Research Services team. This spring, AMT will release its Additive Manufacturing Report, one of AMT’s new State of Manufacturing Pillar Reports. Drawing on industry data and market intelligence, the report identifies where additive is delivering meaningful production wins, and is intended to help manufacturers evaluate how additive could be integrated into their workflows. Additional State of Manufacturing Pillar Reports focused on Automation & Robotics, AI & Digitalization, and Manufacturing Outlook will follow later this year.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact Kevin at kbowers@AMTonline.org.

Fabric8Labs has an additive manufacturing process tailored to copper and well-suited to scale production of precise components for the electronics industry. It offers a transformative solution for creating thermal management hardware for data centers. (Image courtesy of Fabric8Labs.)

RIDING THE WAVES OF CHANGE

SAVE THE DATE April 13–15, 2027 • Maui, Hawaii

Get notified when registration opens

Investment Signals a Maturing Additive Manufacturing Market BY ABBEY KNOEPFEL, PH.D. SENIOR ANALYST The additive manufacturing (AM) market reached a new phase of structural maturity in 2025. This followed several years of experimentation, rapid technology development, fluctuating venture capital activity, and turbulent public market performance. Investment activity, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic partnerships reflected concentrated capital investments, technology consolidation, and a focus on commercially validated, market-aligned use cases.

FEATURE STORY

20

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

Rather than indicating a contracting market, 2025 reflected a shift toward application-driven growth, industrial relevance, and disciplined capital deployment as the industry moves from “proof of concept” to “proof of value.” AM Venture Capital Investments Additive manufacturing venture capital investments are grouped into four categories based on technology and value chain position: • Core investments represent developers across AM processes, 3D printers, and postprocessing equipment alongside 3D printing service providers, online marketplaces, and other hardware technology enablers. • Applications companies include specialized service companies focused on a particular industry or product class, such as heat exchangers, consumer goods, or medical implants. • Materials investments cover materials suppliers, formulators, and developers. • Software includes companies specializing in additive manufacturing software across the computer-aided design, engineering, or manufacturing workflow. (Note: All investment and M&A data exclude biological, construction, food, and desktop consumer-focused 3D printing companies.) Global AM venture capital (VC) investments reached $1.14 billion in 2025, a significant increase from 2024. While global VC investments rebounded closer to long-term averages, the composition of capital deployment notably shifted.

Shifting From Core to Applications Applications accounted for 77% of all AM VC investments in 2025, increasing from $164 million in 2024 to $884 million. This marked increase follows investors’ reduced interest in broad, platform-centered innovation lacking clear end-use adoption pathways. In contrast, investments in core technologies decreased by 31% year over year (YOY), accounting for one third of VC investment deals in 2025 but only 17% of invested capital. The shift in deal composition away from core technologies was not driven by an increase in deal volume, as the number of additive-related VC deals remained constant from the previous year. Rather, a sharp increase in average deal size was the defining feature for 2025, with the average VC investment more than doubling from $15.8 million in 2024 to $32.7 million in 2025. This reflects investors’ growing preference for fewer, larger, application-focused funding rounds. Large funding rounds across aerospace and defense underscored this trend. Investment rounds, including Divergent Technologies’ $290 million Series E, X-Bow’s $105 million Series B, Firehawk Aerospace’s $60 million Series C, and Ursa Major’s $100 million Series E, suggested growing investor confidence in AM’s ability to deliver scalable, mission critical components for high-pressure applications. Beyond aerospace and defense, medical and industrial applications also drew significant capital. Companies like Restor3D, LuxCreo, and CurifyLabs continued to raise funding as AM proves its value in personalized health care and regulated production environments.

21

FEATURE STORY

MARCH/APRIL 2026

capital to production-scale AM companies. These investments also reinforced investor confidence in mature, application driven businesses aligned with strategic end markets, like aerospace and defense.

Other companies supporting production-scale applications continued to attract funding: Caracol, Fabric8Labs, and Carbon raised significant capital, reflecting investor willingness to back core platforms tied to identifiable production use cases. Materials Material investments followed a similar pattern. Although material investments declined YOY, companies such as Alloyed and Avimetal Powder Metallurgy secured funding for advanced alloy development and material qualification for aerospace and defense applications. Software Software investments remained smaller but continued to support automation, process monitoring, and digital workflow optimization. As demand grows for end-to-end ecosystems, digital twins, and AI-enabled process control, AM software has reemerged as a strategically important enabler of industrial adoption.

Additive Manufacturing Mergers and Acquisitions

The AM market continued to experience significant organizational restructuring and consolidation in 2025 as companies pursued acquisitions, partnerships, and rebranding initiatives to refine technology portfolios, expand global presence, and strengthen industrial capabilities. Additive related M&As increased 18% YOY, rising from 27 transactions in both 2023 and 2024 to 32 in 2025. Many of the year’s transactions reflected portfolio rationalization and targeted vertical integration rather than expansion into speculative new platforms and technologies. Notable M&As and partnerships included: • Stratasys acquired key assets from Nexa3D and Forward AM Technologies and invested in Tritone Technologies to expand into the metal AM market. • Sintokogio Group acquired Bosch Advanced Ceramics and rebranded the company as Sinto Advanced Ceramics Europe, with global expansion plans. • Arc Impact acquired Desktop Metal and select assets from ExOne. • Anzu Partners acquired EnvisionTec, ExOne, and Voxeljet, merging ExOne and Voxeljet into ExOne Global Holdings. • SprintRay acquired EnvisionTec’s dental assets. • Quantum acquired BCN3D. • American Axle & Manufacturing acquired GKN • The DUBAG Group acquired Trumpf’s additive manufacturing business and formed the new company Atlix. • Sodick acquired Prima Additive, and rebranded the company as AltForm. Automotive and GKN Powder Metallurgy. • Ametek acquired FARO Technologies.

Public and Private Investments In addition to venture capital, public market activity, private equity, and government funding played a significant role in AM’s capital growth in 2025. Notable public transactions and initial public offerings (IPOs) included Velo3D’s $17.5 million IPO on the Nasdaq, 6K Additive’s $31.8 million IPO on the ASX, Graphy’s $21 million IPO on the Kosdaq, and Amaero’s $32.3 million equity offering. Government funding and contract activity continued to support AM qualification and production scaling, particularly for defense-adjacent and domestic manufacturing priorities, through contracts awarded to companies such as IperionX, Velo3D, Continuous Composites, Firestorm Labs, Firehawk Aerospace, Nikon SLM Solutions, and 3D Systems. These awards reflected continued public sector interest in domestic reshoring, supply chain resilience, and enhanced production capacity. In parallel, growth equity and sector-focused investors, including the Stifel North Atlantic AM-Forward Fund, provided

FEATURE STORY

22

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

While some companies exited the AM market in 2025, like Arburg, others relaunched or rebranded, including Shapeways, Admatec, Formatec, Atlix, and AltForm, reflecting the enduring value of these companies’ legacies. The increased M&A activity reflected a strategic emphasis on technology alignment, operational efficiency, and vertical integration, rather than broad expansion. The data from 2020 to 2025 illustrates an industry transitioning from exploration to execution. While deal counts have stabilized and core investment activity has declined, capital continues to enter the market, gravitating toward companies with clear value propositions, proven applications, and scalable business models. As the AM industry moves into 2026, continued emphasis on specialization, materials

qualification, and application-driven growth is likely to define the next phase of industrial adoption.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact Abbey at aknoepfel@AMTonline.org.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY SALES TRAINING & CERTIFICATION

The manufacturing landscape is rapidly evolving with new and emerging technologies. Is your sales expertise evolving with it? Becoming a Certified Manufacturing Technology Sales Engineer (CMTSE) demonstrates that you represent the highest standard of professionalism and technical expertise in manufacturing technology sales. Earn the industry’s only nationally recognized certification for manufacturing technology sales professionals, showcasing your knowledge, integrity, and commitment to customer success.

CERTIFIED MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY SALES ENGINEER

LEARN MORE TO GET CERTIFIED IN THE CMTSE PROGRAM

toolingu.com | 866.706.8665

THE BIG PICTURE

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

24

As the additive manufacturing market continues to mature, vertical integration and strategic consolidation have continued to reshape the competitive landscape. The M&A activity in 2025 demonstrates the shift toward targeted technology alignment and specializtion through focused asset acquisitions rather than broad-based expansion.

Desktop Metal

Nano Dimension

Markforged

voxeljet

Went bankrupt

EnvisionTEC

ExOne KK & ExOne GmbH

Core DM Platform and Material IP

Acquired by Anzu in 2024

Including dental assets

Anzu Partners

Arc Impact

SprintRay acquired EnvisionTEC's dental assets from Anzu Partners

ExOne Global Holdings

SprintRay

Desktop Metal, an Arc Impact Company

Anzu Partners merged voxeljet & ExOne into ExOne Global Holdings

Arc Impact acquired Desktop Metal assets and relaunched the business

THE BIG PICTURE

MARCH/APRIL 2026

25

Companies Acquired or Sold

Acquiring Companies, Venture Capital Firms, and Private Equity Firms

Newly Formed or Renamed Companies

Technology Assets

TRUMPF

BCN3D

Bosch Advanced Ceramics

Prima Additive

Went bankrupt

Additive division

Sintokogio Group

Quantum

Sodick

DUBAG Group

BCN3D

Sinto Advanced Ceramics GmbH

AltForm

ATLIX

Sodick acquired Prima Additive and rebranded it as AltForm

After declaring bankruptcy, BCN3D was acquired by Quantum, giving the company a second chance

Sintokogio Group acquired Bosch Advanced Ceramics and rebranded it as Sinto Advanced Ceramics GmbH

DUBAG Group launched a new company, ATLIX, after acquiring the TRUMPF additive division

26

IMTS

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

Sam Potolicchio, Ph.D., a globally recognized leadership scholar, delivered the keynote at the IMTS 2026 Exhibitor Workshop to more than 350 participants.

IMTS 2026 Exhibitor Workshop Empowers Success BY MICHELLE EDMONSON VICE PRESIDENT, EXHIBITIONS

Just as manufacturing underpins our economy, IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show is built to support the companies that power it. And a vital part of delivering the best

economy, highlighting areas of stability and opportunity while acknowledging ongoing uncertainty. Vice President of Research Kevin Bowers and Principal Economist Chris Chidzik, both of AMT, reinforced that perspective, noting that the industry is entering 2026 on a solid foundation supported by a 22.5% increase in machine tool orders from 2024 to 2025 (see USMTO press releases at AMTonline.org), a stable labor market, moderating inflation, and continued capital investment and consumer demand. While challenges remain, particularly around trade policy and tariffs, both emphasized that job shops, aerospace, defense, electrical equipment, and automation-intensive industries continue to invest – creating opportunities for manufacturing technology suppliers exhibiting at IMTS 2026.

possible exhibitor experience is the IMTS 2026 Exhibitor Workshop. Held Jan. 27-29, 2026, at McCormick Place, the workshop brought together nearly 350 participants for three days focused on helping exhibitors maximize their success through unrivaled educational content, marketing tools, and direct engagement with IMTS staff and trusted vendor partners. The Exhibitor Workshop reflects a core IMTS belief: When you succeed, we succeed. That shared commitment was a recurring theme throughout the presentations, reinforcing IMTS’ role as a long-term business platform. Setting the Stage for IMTS 2026 Doug Woods, the president of AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, opened the Exhibitor Workshop with a data-driven overview of the manufacturing

Understanding the Manufacturing Environment

Workshop participants also gained insight into how IMTS remains sharply audience-focused, from organizing the show floor into 10 technology sectors and featuring real-life manufacturers in the ad campaign to delivering targeted attractions such as AMT’s Emerging Technology Center,

27

IMTS

MARCH/APRIL 2026

the new Industrial AI Arena, Smartforce Student Summit, and IMTS Conferences. These elements are designed to help exhibitors connect with qualified decision-makers across IMTS 2026’s 1,220 exhibiting companies on more than 1,083,085 square feet of exhibit space to date. Connecting Strategy, Technology, and People One of the most valuable sessions for exhibitors at the Exhibitor Workshop was a panel discussion featuring three manufacturing leaders who are company presidents and owners, as well as longtime IMTS visitors. They shared candid feedback on what draws them to a booth, what undermines credibility, and what they value in long-term partners. (A detailed recap of that discussion will be shared in a future update.) Guest keynote speaker Sam Potolicchio, Ph.D., a globally recognized leadership scholar, delivered a thought-provoking session challenging attendees to move beyond binary thinking and recognize how individual bias can limit decision-making in complex environments. His message encouraged exhibitors to seek broader perspectives, engage in deeper conversations, and approach disruption, workforce challenges, and geopolitical uncertainty with curiosity rather than caution. Preparing Now for Show Success To support those conversations, the Exhibitor Workshop reviewed the full suite of exclusive marketing and planning tools available for IMTS 2026 exhibitors. These include the Exhibitor Passport, which provides access to more than 90,000 qualified prospects, the Exhibitor Prospectus, advertising and public relations opportunities, social media resources, and the new Exhibitor Planning Guide, which organizes preparation into six phases. All exhibitor resources can be found at IMTS.com/exhibit. To position your company for success at IMTS 2026, exhibitors are encouraged to take the following actions now, beginning with resources available through your e-Kit: 1. Review the Exhibitor Planning Guide. 2. Populate your Digital Exhibitor Showroom page. 3. Double-check that you’ve selected the correct product categories for your Digital Exhibitor Showroom. 4. Submit press releases via your e-Kit. 5. Review your Digital Exhibitor Showroom from a visitor’s perspective. 6. Sign up for the Exhibitor Report. 7. Attend Exhibitor Education webinars. IMTS is a marathon, not a sprint. Thoughtful planning, consistent execution, and early engagement make a measurable difference. The IMTS show management team and vendor partners are here to support you every step of the way to ensure you have a strong, successful show. For manufacturers looking to learn, connect, and see what’s possible firsthand, register to attend IMTS 2026, Sept. 14-19, at McCormick Place in Chicago at IMTS.com/Register.

(L-R) Michelle Edmonson, CEM, AMT vice president, exhibitions; Nicole Wolter, president and CEO at HM Manufacturing Inc.; Mike Payne, manufacturing leader and podcast host; Kika Young, president and shareholder of Forest City Gear.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact Michelle at medmonson@AMTonline.org.

28

IMTS+

THE STATE OF ADDITIVE ISSUE

Precision With Purpose: Driving Digitalization in Manufacturing and Forensics BY TRAVIS EGAN CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Whether it’s producing a precision-machined component or documenting a crime scene before evidence disappears, today’s work demands accuracy, speed, and digital confidence. Manufacturing and forensics may serve different missions, but both are being reshaped by the same force: advanced digital metrology. At Fullerton College in North Orange County, California’s longest-running community college, students are gaining hands-on experience with these tools in labs designed to mirror real-world conditions – preparing them for industries where precision is critical, and the margin for error is razor thin. For Episode 3 of the IMTS+ award-winning series “The Architect,” we visited Fullerton to see Hexagon (IMTS booth #134102) technologies in action in an educational setting. “Our goal is to give students every advantage in a digital world,” says Kenneth Starkman, the college’s dean. “By partnering with technology leaders like Hexagon, we’re not just teaching skills – we’re teaching adaptability, problem-solving, and digital fluency.”

Integrating Hexagon’s Absolute Arm and coordinate measuring machine (CMM) gives students real-world skills that can be applied on the first day on the job. Scott Zanio, metrology sales engineer at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, works directly with Fullerton to ensure students are learning on modern systems that offer unparalleled accuracy, speed, and connectivity.

Digitizing Forensics

Manufacturing is far from the only industry that is going digital. The innovative Crime Scene Lab at Fullerton

is helping to train the next generation of investigators with cutting-edge technology. The BLK360 scanner from Hexagon Leica Geosystems allows professionals to capture crime scenes in 3D, modernizing how evidence is collected and analyzed. This technology helps eliminate human error and improve the prosecution of criminals. “In forensics, details matter. A single millimeter can make or break a case,” explains Kelly Robertson, director of the Crime Scene Investigation Skills Certificate Program. “Digital scans eliminate guesswork and provide indisputable evidence that holds up in court.” Preparing for the Future By leveraging industry partnerships with technology leaders like Hexagon and committing to digitalization, Fullerton is preparing students for careers with purpose, growth opportunities, and excellent pay. Students are reaping the benefits, entering the workforce with skills that will serve them well today and into the future. Watch “Driving Digitalization in Manufacturing & Forensics,” Episode 3 of the IMTS+ award-winning series “The Architect,” powered by Hexagon, at IMTS.com/Fullerton to see how students are using advanced technology to shape the future of manufacturing and forensic science.

Modernizing the Manufacturing Talent Pipeline Fullerton’s manufacturing program equips students with the practical and digital skills for employers of today

and tomorrow. Students train using advanced manufacturing technologies, including CNC machining powered by Esprit CAM software, preparing graduates to work effectively in a wide range of settings. “We make sure our students understand the fundamentals of manual machining and traditional processes first,” explains Professor of Machine Technology Dan O’Brien. “But here’s the difference: They also learn advanced CAM programming, CNC operation, and digital inspection. So, when they join a company with legacy equipment, they’re not just operators – they’re change agents.” Focusing on Metrology Metrology matters more than ever, and Fullerton is leading the way in adopting advanced metrology technology for education.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact Travis at tegan@AMTonline.org.

Watch Season 1 of “The Architect,” powered by Hexagon, at IMTS.com/The Architect! • Episode 1: “Quality at Speed”

• Episode 2: “Heartland in Motion” • Episode 3: “Precision with Purpose”