3DPOD: Insight from 3D Printing Pros

Lithoz is a pioneer in the 3D printing of technical ceramics, initially using a ceramic-loaded stereolithography process and later adopting multiple technologies. Johannes Homa, a researcher turned entrepreneur, discusses his transition from academia to business. In this episode of the 3DPOD, our conversation covers ceramics, the development of technologies, and business growth. Johannes provides insight into Lithoz and shares how the company is advancing the use of a new class of materials.

Dietmar Hutmacher is a Professor and Chair in Regenerative Medicine at the Faculty of Engineering, School of Mechanical, Medical, and Process Engineering at Queensland University of Technology. He possesses extensive experience in 3D cell cultures, grafts, biomaterials, scaffolds, bone engineering scaffolds, biofabrication, and more. On this episode of the 3DPOD, we engage in a candid discussion about the hype surrounding bioprinting, the reality, and the forefront of bioprinting in patients.

Andy Jeffery is a long-time 3D printing veteran who has repeatedly introduced binder jetting technologies to new areas. Starting as one of the earliest adopters of this technology for filters, Andy has worked with materials such as glass, ceramics, wood, and more. Now at Marvel Labs, he is part of an initiative to develop cost-effective 3D printing methods for wood, coffee, and seaweed. Time and time again, Andy has taken his deep technological insight and repurposed it for potentially huge applications. His current projects could lead to products that reduce CO2 emissions and change consumption patterns.

David Dietrich's journey in 3D printing spans from materials engineering roles at Boeing and ORNL to his position as an engineering fellow at Honeywell, showcasing his extensive experience in metals and polymer manufacturing. Currently, David is part of PADT, a company specializing in the manufacturing and design of 3D printed medical devices, space components, and more. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Dietrich shares his insights into the evolution of 3D printing over the years, offering valuable lessons from his broad experience in the field.

Ricky Wildman is working on 3D printing pills, but, as Professor of Multiphase Flow and Physics at Nottingham, he does a whole lot more. His research encompasses the characterization of metal 3D printed components, laser scan strategies, regenerative medicine, and more. Given his broad exposure to various fields, Ricky's perspective on additive manufacturing is notably more comprehensive than what is commonly encountered. What follows in this episode of the 3DPOD is an insightful conversation covering a wide range of topics, offering diverse viewpoints on numerous subjects.

François Minec began his career in polymers as an engineer. He then progressed to roles as a product and general manager in several polymer companies. Following this, he founded Advanc3D Materials, where he developed polymers for powder bed fusion. After the sale of this company to BASF, he took on the role of leading BASF's additive manufacturing business before becoming the head of HP's polymer 3D printing division. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we delve into polymers, the cost of 3D printing materials, strategies to advance the industrialization of 3D printing, and much more in a thorough discussion.

Amy Alexander leads the 3D printing initiatives at the Mayo Clinic. You'll be astounded by the ambitious plans this hospital has for additive manufacturing. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Amy discusses the Mayo Clinic's multi-year strategy to utilize powder bed fusion for printing metal implants, instruments, and devices in-house. Additionally, Amy elaborates on how her team is applying Additive Manufacturing within the hospital. In particular areas, like new device design, the team is indeed undertaking innovative activities. This is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of 3D printing and healthcare.

Ali Tamijani, a professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, has an extensive background in composites, tool pathing, and the development of functional 3D printed parts, primarily for the aerospace industry. He developed Novineer, a tool designed to simplify the editing and adaptation of complex files for additive manufacturing components. This tool allows parts to be optimized by significantly reducing the number of surfaces and volumes and tailoring them according to where strength and other specific properties are needed. Additionally, it ensures that parts are optimized in conjunction with the toolpaths. Novineer is a distinct product in the field of advanced additive components, and we discuss its development and applications with Ali.

Shannon VanDeren is a consultant in the 3D printing industry, focusing on implementation and integration for her company, Layered Manufacturing and Consulting. For nearly ten years, she has been involved with the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG), culminating in her role as the organization's President. Her extensive career includes positions at 3D Systems, Materialise, and other renowned firms in the additive sector. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Shannon shares her insights into the additive industry based on her experiences in the 3D printing field ahead of the upcoming AMUG event in Chicago, March 10-14, 2024.

Clare DiFazio's journey into the 3D printing industry was serendipitous, yet her involvement at critical moments has significantly influenced the sector. Her position as Head of Marketing & Product Strategy at E3D offers a distinctive insight, as the company stands as the sole major supplier of aftermarket 3D printer components and the primary producer of nozzles for numerous material extrusion OEMs. DiFazio joined E3D during its nascent stages, contributing through periods of remarkable growth and challenging times, including tragic events. Alongside sharing her personal narrative, she provides valuable advice on scaling a hardware business and fostering unity during difficult periods.

Jeremy Pullin, an additive manufacturing (AM) veteran with decades of experience, is currently at the leading medical firm, Sartorius Group. He has been instrumental in setting up engineering centers and has significantly contributed to the development of metal 3D printing over the years. In an open-hearted conversation, he shares insights into the application of 3D printing in both industrial and medical sectors. We delve into topics such as materials, processes, software, files, and the various challenges that come with implementing additive technologies. Pullin's learned and very direct approach is particularly refreshing; he candidly discusses the hurdles faced in the adoption of AM, offering a comprehensive and honest perspective on the state of the field.

John Kawola was one of the initial employees at Zcorp, a pioneering 3D printing company known for manufacturing color parts that was eventually acquired by 3D Systems. Subsequently, Kawola rejoined the 3D printing sector to lead Ultimaker's invasion into the US market. Not stopping there, he later assumed leadership at BMF, a company specializing in the production of micro-sized parts using digital light processing technology. BMF is carving out a niche for itself while also commercializing applications that utilize its innovative technology—a strategy that, in our opinion, should be more widely adopted.

Stefan Ritt, a expert in 3D printing veteran, has contributed significantly to numerous additive manufacturing committees and standardization initiatives. For twenty years, he was a pivotal figure at SLM Solutions, joining the company during the nascent stages of its metal 3D printing venture. His tenure spanned the major phase of internationalization and expansion. Consequently, on this episode of the 3DPOD, we had the privilege of hearing Stefan's tales from the formative years, as well as his insights on the current state of the industry.

Chris Prue, who initially honed his skills in the Quality department at GE, later transitioned to GE Aviation, where he ascended to the role of Additive and Process Manager. His career journey then led him to AddUp, followed by a move to UPM Additive. UPM distinguishes itself in the powder bed fusion sector through a novel approach. Instead of focusing on selling metal powder, the company has carved out a specialization in the creation, resurfacing, and customization of build plates for metal 3D printing. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we dive into the nuances of build plate optimization and the intricacies of the metal 3D printing industry.

Greg Morris, CTO of advanced manufacturing provider Zeda Technologies, is a true industry leader in 3D printing. Decades back, he made his initial family metals firm, Morris Technologies, into an early adopter of metal 3D printing in the U.S., thus helping America industrialize metal additive though his work with GE. Morris Technologies was ultimately acquired by GE. Now, with Zeda, he is sure to make an impact as well. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Morris is humble as he discusses the unsung engineers that really performed the trailblazing work. There are a number of lessons in this show about how to build an innovative organization and how to survive.

Sherri Monroe is the Executive Director of the Additive Manufacturer Green Trade Association (AMGTA). There's a growing curiosity about the environmental aspects of 3D printing. Is it truly "green"? Understanding how to measure sustainability and promote it is crucial in this context. When one process proves superior in certain aspects compared to others, what steps should be taken? This leads to a broader question: how can companies be encouraged to adopt greener practices? Moreover, does 3D printing have the potential to drive more companies towards eco-friendly operations? We discuss these topics and more in this episode of the 3DPOD.

Hans-Alfred Breuninger, with a background as a strategy consultant, has specialized in 3D printing after many years in his initial field. He has collaborated with leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Stratasys, and engaged in projects for industrial clients and prospective 3D printing users. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we delve into strategies for encouraging companies to adopt 3D printing, explore the challenges involved, and discuss the expected evolution of the market. Hans-Alfred expresses concern over the German industrial base, highlighting apprehensions about Chinese companies potentially outpacing German ones in the 3D printing sector. We are particularly impressed with Bambu Lab, anticipating its potential to outperform many competitors. The three of us also share our insights on strategies to effectively compete with Bambu. While this episode starts off slowly, it blossoms into a compelling discussion as it progresses.

Nestled beside a potato field, JawsTec's location may not raise eyebrows in the state known for its spuds, but the competitive spirit of the 3D printing service bureau certainly might. Oscar Klassen, the company's founder and CEO, delves into the origins of JawsTec, charting the company's growth and sharing his aspirations for its future. His perspectives on automation and post-processing are notably unconventional. Oscar also elaborates on his ambitious goals for the company. In our discussion, he envisions the road ahead for his business, considering the factors that propel and impede its progress.

Seven years ago, Jonas Galle began his journey to develop a molten metal 3D printing technology. Since then, his young startup, ValCUN, has been on a wild ride The company has introduced a unique method for 3D printing aluminum using inexpensive feedstock and recently launched a user-friendly machine for laboratories, with plans to release one geared towards production. ValCUN aims to execute 3D printing for mass manufacturing in sectors such as power electronics and automotive. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Jonas candidly shares the challenges he faced in securing funding, evolving as an entrepreneur, and more.

After a lengthy tenure at GE, Juan Mario Gomez took an unexpected turn, launching a metal 3D printing venture, Xact Metal. In this episode of the 3DPOD, he shares his experiences at GE and his subsequent journey. This includes what it takes to produce affordable metal powder bed fusion systems, as well as the challenges of initiating and sustaining a business in this field. His insights offer valuable lessons for a broad audience.