One of the core aspects that makes RAPID + TCT more than just a trade show is its conference. This year, there will be more than 140 technical presentations divided into eight tracks, only accessible for attendees with a conference pass, available for all three days or a specific day. Here, it is possible to learn everything from design to how to optimize the 3D printing process for a part, along with numerous applications. Presentations are designed and delivered from experts from Ford, Siemens Energy, BlueForge Alliance, the U.S. Navy, and more.
But beyond applications, two of the most relevant tracks at the conference this year for those looking to further enhance their additive manufacturing capabilities are materials development and process development. Perhaps not as intuitively applicable as the industry-focused tracks like aerospace, defense, ecosystem, healthcare and mobility, these are the core of what an attendee needs to truly understand additive manufacturing. Everyone will benefit, whether they are an expert or a beginner to the technology.
Conference and technical presentations are the core of RAPID + TCT 2025
If you have not yet signed up for RAPID + TCT, it’s not too late. You can register HERE with the promo code ‘3DNATIVES’ and get 20% off of a Conference Pass for the event (or a free Expo Pass). You will also be entered into a giveaway to win a not-yet-available-to-the-public 3D printed golf club from COBRA PUMA GOLF, which can only be picked up at COBRA PUMA GOLF’s presentation at RAPID + TCT. Let’s take a look at what you can expect from these tracks.
Advancing Materials for Additive Manufacturing at RAPID + TCT
When it comes to advancing additive manufacturing, material development is one of the most important. That is why there is so much research surrounding the development and optimization of different materials, whether polymers, metals, composites or ceramics, for 3D printing. This is also why RAPID + TCT has made materials development one of its core conference tracks.
Why is it so important? While a lot of focus is put on the actual 3D printing processes, materials are in fact the core of what will make up the final properties of a part. Whether the component is strong or flexible, heat-resistant or particularly conductive, these properties are all determined by material choice. And that is why so many consider the investigation into different materials and how they can be used in additive manufacturing to be so critical.
Anyone with a conference pass will be able to attend the technical presentations at RAPID + TCT 2025, including those in the materials track
On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, attendees with a Conference Pass will be able to attend the presentations in this track, many presented by researchers from distinguished universities who are on the cutting edge of material development. For example, in a talk from the University of Waterloo and The Barnes Global Advisor, it will be possible to learn about the use of crack-free 7A76 high-strength aluminum alloy with laser powder bed fusion.
In fact, alloys are one of the major metal topics at the event. Different talks center on enhancing Inconel 718 superalloy properties with SLM, the fabrication of custom alloy wire feedstock for large DED, and a study of Niobium alloys as the next generation material for high-temperature applications. All of which are crucial for those working on industrializing and advancing metal additive manufacturing, especially in sectors like aerospace and defense.
Composites are also well represented. One presentation from the University of Maine will showcase a novel lobster shell composite for structural applications, while another from the University of Dayton will focus on Ni/sic composites.
In terms of polymers, there are a number of technical sessions that apply to certain applications. For example, flame-retardant materials for electronic connectors as well as another one on 3D printed thermal and optical components for lighting. Powders will also star in this track.
In any case, it is safe to say that in the materials development track at RAPID + TCT, there is something for every industrial 3D printing process or need. It is perfect for anyone interested in bringing additive manufacturing to the next level.
Process Development as a Conference Track
Process development is another conference track that caught our attention at RAPID + TCT 2025. This one is much broader in the sense that many different topics will fall under its umbrella. There are presentations on everything from software to part quality in this track.
Similar to materials, the 3D printing process chosen and how well the printing goes play a significant role in determining how a part will turn out. Think, for example, of how photopolymerization processes are known for their detail while those made with laser powder bed fusion are stronger. This means that a user must choose the technology best suited to the needs of each part. Furthermore, optimization of these processes either during the actual printing or in design before and post-processing after are key to ensuring good quality final parts. Don’t discount the importance of this track!
Sustainability is another subject that will be covered in the process track at RAPID + TCT
Some of the presentations that are the most applicable for industrial users center on topics like large-scale 3D printing (a quickly growing trend in the sector), continuous printing and software like digital twins or optimization tools. Additional subjects include specific process parameters for printing and steps for improved quality in parts. Speakers include those from some of the most innovative companies including Stratasys, Formlabs, Ricoh and ADDiTEC, among others. This makes it a must-see for beginners and those trying to further industrialize and perfect 3D printing at their companies.
So there you have it! The conference schedule this year at RAPID + TCT 2025 has proven to be an impactful one, especially the materials and process development tracks. That is why, if you have not already, be sure to get the discounted Conference Pass HERE.
Will you be getting a Conference Pass HERE for RAPID + TCT 2025? What are you most excited for among the different tracks? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.
*All Photo Credits: SME