Formnext 2024 once again solidified its position as the global hub for innovation for additive manufacturing (AM), bringing together innovators, industry leaders and engineers to shape the future of industrial production. CEAD was thrilled to be part of this dynamic ecosystem, showcasing our cutting-edge solutions and engaging with the brightest minds in the industry.
With over 864 exhibitors and 34.404 experts and executives, the scale of this year’s event was nothing short of impressive. This was reflected when walking through the vibrant exhibition halls, which clearly showed how AM continues to evolve and broaden its applicability across industries. This year’s event emphasized progress in more efficient, productive and sustainable industrial processes – aligned closely with CEAD’s mission to push the boundaries of large format additive manufacturing (LFAM).
Unveiling the Flexcube: a game-changer for LFAM solutions
One of CEAD’s standout contributions at Formnext 2024 was the launch of the Flexcube solution series, a cartesian-style all-in-one LFAM solutions designed for full part production within an automated workflow. A key highlight is its impressive build volume-to-cell ratio: maximizing print volume while ensuring optimal space efficiency. The rotating axis for 45-degree 3D printing unlocks possibilities for complex geometries. Overall, the Flexcube is designed to enhance accessibility to the technology, enabling customers to start production without unnecessary delays.
The Flexcube demonstrated its efficiency in part production by printing multiple scooters live daily with remarkable speed and precision. In partnership with Airtech Advanced Materials Group, the high-quality scooters were printed using eco-friendly Dalthram® T-100GF materials, emphasizing the potential for sustainable manufacturing. Another highlight of the demonstration was the daily giveaway. Each day, the newly 3D-printed scooters were awarded to participants of our contest – leaving people delighted with their own 3D-printed scooters.
Collaborative projects showcasing LFAM integration
Collaboration took center stage at our booth, where we proudly highlighted our customers and partners.
- Studiobenkert, based in Germany, produced an elegant lounge area using their Flexbot system, PolyCore PETG-1013 and PETG-100, printed on their Flexbot system paired with slicing software from ADAXIS. The beautiful side tables could be bewondered at the booth’s of ADAXIS and Polymaker.
- Barrows, with headquarters in South Africa, designed a striking bar manufacturing with FGF PIPG Glassfiber 30% from Mitsubishi Chemical Europe.
Both projects demonstrated the organic shapes and complex geometries that can be achieved using LFAM technology. The projects also demonstrated the seamless integration of CEAD’s LFAM technology within a broader ecosystem, highlighting how projects successfully come to life into real-world applications.
Flexbot: innovative Wider Printing set-up
Shining on the opposite side of the Flexcube was the Flexbot, CEAD’s robotic-based turnkey solution. This year, we showcased an advanced, customizable setup designed to address specific challenges of creating dimensionally wide parts. The Flexbot’s wider printing option expands printing capabilities and enables the robot to fully utilize its reach, supporting large-scale applications with wider dimensions. While this innovation is relevant across a range of industries, it was specifically demonstrated in the maritime sector with the 3D-printed boat section. In CEAD’s Maritime Application Center, this set-up will be installed on a 12 m track to support LFAM developments in maritime.
CEAD spotlight: insights from industry experts
To emphasize the versatility and potential of LFAM technology, we hosted industry experts at our booth to share their experiences with CEAD’s solutions. From reusable silicone bags for 3D-printed composite tooling, to pioneering robotic LFAM on earth and space, these thought-provoking talks explored the many ways innovators are pushing the boundaries of manufacturing. A special thank you to all our guest speakers, whose insights inspired the audience and underscored the transformative potential of LFAM across industries.
Demo parts: a showcase of LFAM applications
Our booth also featured a diverse array of demo parts, highlighting real-world applications of CEAD technology, including autoclave tooling, vacuum infusion molds, sandcasting patterns, car-door models, and interior elements. These examples underscored how CEAD’s solutions can transform production processes across industries such as automotive, aerospace, industrial tooling and architecture and design.
An event for meaningful connections
Once again, Formnext proved to be an invaluable platform for CEAD to connect with partners, customers, and industry experts while demonstrating our commitment to innovation. We were energized by the incredible enthusiasm and collaboration at this year’s event and look forward to building on these successes. We want to thank all our partners, customers, and visitors for joining us at our booth. For anyone that missed us or has remaining questions, feel free to contact sales@ceadgroup.com
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