Innovative AM Solutions at Formnext 2025
- 3D Alliances
- Nov 3
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 6
Formnext 2025 is approaching, featuring over 800 exhibitors from 38 countries, who will present the latest developments in Additive Manufacturing (AM) solutions. From small start-ups to leading global players, the entire AM ecosystem will be represented — showcasing innovative 3D software, 3D printing systems, post-processing solutions, materials, and other complementary technologies.
As in previous years, special attention will be drawn to companies introducing unique solutions that many visitors may still not be familiar with. Here are three companies to watch:
RAPLAS Technologies (UK)
HALL 11.1, BOOTH B-61
Established in 2018 by Richard Wooldridge and Paul Freeman, who each bring over 30 years of experience, Raplas develops and sells large-format stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing systems designed for production applications — capable of producing end-use parts, tooling, and short-batch runs.
The company’s solutions were created to allow users to apply SLA technology according to their specific needs. The Raplas ecosystem includes three large-format systems — the PR series, dedicated software, and general-performance resins. Because the machines are open, users can print a wide variety of materials to suit their application requirements.
Raplas founders - Richard Wooldridge (top left) and Paul Freeman. Image source - Raplas.
What makes RAPLAS unique?
SLA is one of the industry’s most established technologies and is widely used across many sectors, primarily for prototyping. To enable the use of SLA for manufacturing applications, Raplas developed its technology to overcome the main challenges of legacy SLA systems, focusing on four key aspects:
Large build volumes with tight accuracy across the bed — Models such as the PR800/7 offer very large formats (~800 × 700 × 400 mm) while maintaining fine, consistent accuracy across the build area.
Production-focused design (speed and repeatability) — The PR series is engineered for short-batch and end-use production, emphasizing repeatability and throughput for manufacturing environments.
Open-materials architecture — Raplas systems are intentionally open-platform, allowing users to qualify and use third-party or custom resins instead of being limited to a single supplier.
Software and workflow integration — Raplas integrates with established build-prep tools such as Materialise Magics and a custom build processor, streamlining part preparation for industrial-scale workflows.
The Raplas PR series – industrial-grade SLA 3D printing systems. Image source - Raplas.
In summary, Raplas aims to deliver the next generation of SLA systems that can be seamlessly integrated into manufacturing processes — offering an ecosystem developed from the ground up to meet the standards and requirements of demanding industries such as automotive and defense.
At Formnext, the company will showcase its industrial-grade 3D printing systems, along with large-scale 3D-printed parts from leading application areas.
Industrial-grade SLA 3D printing for manufacturing applications. Image source - Raplas.
TPM3D (China)
HALL 11.0, C-18
TPM3D is a China-based company specializing in the development and sale of industrial-grade SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) 3D printing solutions. As one of the few Chinese providers of SLS systems, the company has developed a comprehensive ecosystem designed to streamline the end-to-end SLS workflow — from software and hardware to materials and post-processing.
To date, the company holds over 90 national patents in China and continues to invest heavily in R&D to develop the next generation of SLS solutions, with a clear focus on manufacturing applications. These solutions include advanced polymer and composite powders tailored for end-use production. Recently, the company completed a new 10,000 sqm production facility in Hefei, establishing the infrastructure to support its growth in the coming years.
Lucy Zhai, CEO at TPM3D. Image source - TPM3D.
What makes TPM3D unique?
Since the company is focused exclusively on SLS technology, it is able to concentrate on developing advanced and specialized solutions for users seeking to scale up the manufacturing of end-use parts. The TPM3D ecosystem includes the following elements:
Large-format and high-temperature machines — Systems designed for high-performance polymers, including the largest SLS system in the industry with a build volume of 600 × 600 × 800 mm.
Extensive industrial materials library (including high-performance polymers) — Over 20 SLS powders, such as PA12, PA11, PA6X, TPU, PP, and high-temperature PEEK, enabling the production of functional, end-use parts across diverse industries.
Industrial features for production environments — The S-Series includes factory-grade capabilities such as active cooling, nitrogen control, and continuous production design, optimized for throughput and safety.
Local cost and scale advantages in China — With vertically integrated manufacturing and an expanded Phase II production facility, TPM3D offers competitive pricing and rapid scalability for high-volume customers.
The S600DL– the largest SLS 3D printing system in the AM industry. Image source - TPM3D
At Formnext 2025, TPM3D plans to introduce a new professional-grade compact printer, the CF200, designed to lower the cost barrier for companies seeking an industrial SLS system at an affordable price point. This exciting product will be positioned alongside other successful, cost-effective SLS systems that have been widely adopted in recent years. With the CF200, TPM3D aims to capture a significant share of this market segment.
Earlier this year, Lucy Zhai, CEO of TPM3D, shared her insights and vision on the evolution of SLS technology and the company’s role in it - “We see SLS technology gradually shifting from high-end industrial markets to small businesses, institutions, even personal studios. In recent years, small and medium-sized SLS printers, such as those from Formlabs, have gained popularity for their smaller build sizes, compact design, and user-friendly operation. I believe this trend will continue, with low-cost, easy-to-use small and medium-sized SLS devices attracting more small businesses and individual users.”
Key Features of the CF200:
The complete package includes dedicated software, a professional printer, and a powder processing station.
The hardware occupies less than 1 square meter.
Build chamber size: 200 × 200 × 320 mm.
Supports multiple powders, including PA11, PA12, and TPU.
Standard 220V plug-in.
Intuitive interface allows effortless setup with one-click start functionality.
This solution targets users from professional R&D departments, small-batch manufacturers and service bureaus, research labs and universities, as well as design studios and artists. Typical applications include consumer electronics, customization and fashion, art and design, industrial prototyping, and digital healthcare.
Nano Dimension (USA/Israel)
HALL 12.1, B119
Nano Dimension is a well-known Israel-based company in the additive manufacturing (AM) industry, originally recognized for its work in Additively Manufactured Electronics (AME). Over the past several years, the company has acquired multiple AM firms, including Markforged and Desktop Metal. Recently, Nano Dimension launched its “Reshaping Nano” initiative, aimed at achieving positive operating income and significantly reducing cash burn.
Currently, the company is restructuring its product portfolio, and one of the most interesting developments to emerge from Nano Dimension’s labs is a new high-temperature resin, called ATARU, designed for use with SLA and DLP 3D printing systems.
What makes ATARU unique?
With its advanced formulation, the ATARU resin is engineered to withstand high temperatures while delivering exceptional durability and resilience. Its distinctive low-loss dielectric properties ensure superior performance in radiofrequency (RF) applications.
These mechanical and thermal properties position the material among the leading high-performance resins on the market, providing a strong solution for advanced manufacturing applications such as injection molding.
Key features of ATARU:
Designed for industrial, high-performance applications — well beyond simple prototyping.
Superior mechanical properties - combines high thermal resistance, mechanical durability, and low-loss dielectric behavior, making it ideal for electronics, RF, and aerospace applications.
Compatible with standard SLA and DLP printers - requiring no highly specialized hardware, thanks to its low viscosity and accessible curing workflow.
Key specifications & properties:
Glass transition temperature (Tg) > 300 °C.
Heat deflection temperature (HDT/A at 1.8 MPa) > 300 °C.
Tensile modulus around ~5.79 GPa (≈ 5790 MPa).
Flexural strength ~121 MPa, flexural modulus ~5190 MPa (per brochure).
Dielectric constant ~2.9 and dissipation factor < 0.005 up to 40 GHz (for RF applications) in independent test coverage.
Viscosity (at ~23 °C, 100 1/s) ~885 mPa·s.
Water absorption (24 h) ~0.09%.
At Formnext 2025, the company will showcase sample prints made with the ATARU material, demonstrating its performance across a range of applications, including connectors for electronics, injection molds, high-pressure and high-temperature molding (such as carbon fiber molding), tools and fixtures, and radio frequency components (e.g., antennas).
ATARU for Connectors, Molds, Radio frequency and more. Image source - Nano Dimension
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