3D & New Materials 2026

3D Expo: Exploring the Future of Additive Manufacturing and New Materials

In the ever-evolving world of industrial manufacturing, additive manufacturing and next-generation materials have become the driving forces of transformation. At the forefront of this revolution stands the 3D Expo, a premier event dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and material innovation.

Held in conjunction with Konepaja (The Machine Tool Expo) and Nordic Welding Expo, the 3D Expo delivers a multi-dimensional experience tailored for professionals across the industrial value chain. Hosted in Finland, this powerful triad of events offers a unified registration, granting attendees access to the best of metalworking, welding, and 3D printing—all under one roof.

Additive Manufacturing Takes Center Stage

The 3D Expo has earned its reputation as a cutting-edge gathering for industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers. It is designed for those who are not just adapting to new technologies but actively seeking to lead the future of manufacturing.

Who Should Attend the 3D Expo?

Design Engineers and Product Developers

Industrial Executives and Decision Makers

Educators and Technical Trainers

Material Scientists and Researchers

Startup Founders and Innovation Officers

Production Managers and Supply Chain Specialists

The event bridges the gap between theory and application, offering both strategic insights and hands-on exposure to the latest advancements in additive manufacturing and material technologies.

What Makes the 3D Expo Unique?

The 3D Expo is more than a showcase—it’s a problem-solving platform. With each edition, it brings together the most forward-thinking suppliers, users, and developers from across the additive ecosystem. Whether you're seeking to implement 3D printing in prototyping, tooling, or mass production, the expo delivers knowledge, contacts, and inspiration.

Core Features of the 3D Expo

• Live Demonstrations of industrial 3D printers, scanners, and CAD tools
• Workshops on material testing, software integration, and design for additive manufacturing (DfAM)
• Startup Showcases highlighting breakthrough innovations
• Expert Panels discussing future trends and challenges
• B2B Meetings and networking zones for professional connection-building

The event provides practical solutions to complex production challenges—solutions that are not only innovative but immediately actionable.

Key Topics at the 3D Expo: From Materials to Manufacturing

The 3D Expo embraces the entire additive manufacturing value chain, from ideation and design to material selection and finished production. This expansive approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of both current applications and future possibilities.

Top Areas of Focus Include

• Industrial 3D Printing Systems
• Metal AM technologies (SLM, DMLS)
• Polymer-based systems (FDM, SLA, SLS)
• Hybrid manufacturing setups
• Advanced Materials and Composites
• High-performance polymers
• Bio-based and biodegradable materials
• Metal powders and sintering technologies
• Carbon-fiber and ceramic composites
• Software and Simulation Tools
• Topology optimization and generative design
• Workflow automation and printability analysis
• Data security in decentralized manufacturing
• Applications Across Industries
• Aerospace, automotive, and medical device production
• Consumer goods and industrial tooling
• Architecture and education

The event also focuses on the integration of additive manufacturing into existing industrial ecosystems, offering insights on scalability, return on investment, and compliance.

New Materials: Transforming Manufacturing from the Inside Out

At the core of innovation in additive manufacturing lies the development of new materials—stronger, lighter, more sustainable, and often more affordable than their traditional counterparts. The 3D Expo places a strong emphasis on material science as the driver of future success.

Material Trends Explored at the Expo

• Smart Materials that adapt to environmental changes
• Eco-Friendly and Recyclable Powders for sustainable production
• Biocompatible Polymers for use in healthcare and wearables
• High-Temperature Alloys for aerospace and heavy industry
• Nano-Enhanced Materials improving strength-to-weight ratios

Material suppliers, researchers, and end-users collaborate at the expo to test, evaluate, and commercialize these groundbreaking solutions.

Integrated Industry Experience: Konepaja and Nordic Welding Expo

One of the unique advantages of attending the 3D Expo is its co-location with two other major events: Konepaja (focused on machine tools and industrial automation) and the Nordic Welding Expo. This creates a cross-sector knowledge environment that enhances the value for all participants.

Benefits of the Co-Located Events

• Unified Access: A single registration grants entry to all three expos
• Broader Networking Pool: Meet professionals across complementary sectors
• Cross-Technology Learning: Explore how 3D printing, machining, and welding can work in harmony
• Complete Manufacturing Solutions: Discover end-to-end workflows from design to delivery

Together, these events form a powerful industrial platform, enabling smarter decision-making and faster adaptation to emerging technologies.

Finland: A Strategic Hub for Advanced Manufacturing

Finland’s strong industrial heritage, combined with its commitment to digital transformation, makes it a natural host for the 3D Expo. The country is rapidly gaining international recognition as a leader in additive innovation, sustainability, and precision engineering.

The expo not only reflects Finland’s ambitions but also supports its growing ecosystem of advanced manufacturing companies, universities, and research centers. For international visitors, it offers a window into one of Europe’s most progressive industrial landscapes.

3D Expo as a Launchpad for Innovation and Industry Collaboration

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, success depends on more than just keeping up—it requires leading the way. The 3D Expo provides the tools, knowledge, and community to do exactly that. Whether you're investing in new technology, developing next-generation materials, or designing parts for tomorrow’s industries, this event empowers you to think bigger, move faster, and manufacture smarter.