23rd Rapid Prototyping Conference Returns to Hamburg — Industrial 3D Printing in Focus

Industrial 3D Printing Takes Center Stage in Hamburg

On April 24, 2026, the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW) will host the 23rd Rapid Prototyping Conference — the longest-running academic-industrial event dedicated to additive manufacturing in the German-speaking world.

The event brings together researchers, industry experts, and manufacturers to discuss the latest developments in 3D printing, from AI-supported tools to new processes in series production.

What to Expect

The day begins with laboratory visits to the FTZ3i research center at HAW, where attendees can see ongoing research on polymer AM, sinter-based AM, and metallic additive manufacturing. The lecture program kicks off at 13:30 in the auditorium.

Key topics include:

• AI in Additive Manufacturing — Fenja Habelmann from AMPOWER GmbH will present AI-supported tools for AM optimization
• Beam Shaping in Laser Powder Bed Fusion — Kenan Kaan Yetil from Nikon SLM Solutions discusses beam shaping techniques
• Thermoplastic Fiber Composites — Dr. Christian-André Keun from CompriseTec presents robot-assisted 3D printing for tool-free production
• Series Production of Small Parts — Nils Napiwotzki-Torres from BEGO Medical discusses large-series manufacturing
• AM in Agricultural Machinery — Alexander Jirgalke from GRIMME presents on moving from prototype to series production

30 Years of H&H Additive Manufacturing

The conference is sponsored by H&H Additive Manufacturing GmbH, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The Hamburg-based company is one of the most experienced providers in the German-speaking world, covering the entire process chain from 3D printing to injection molding and assembly.

Practical Information

• Date: April 24, 2026
• Location: HAW Hamburg, Berliner Tor 21, 20099 Hamburg
• Cost: Free admission
• Registration: By April 17 for lab visits and lunch
• Website: HAW-HAMBURG.EU/RP

This annual symposium has been running for over two decades, making it one of the most established AM conferences in Europe. The focus on practical applications — from series production to simultaneous engineering — reflects the industry push toward manufacturing-ready additive manufacturing.