University of Siegen opens state-of-the-art 3D printing laboratory for metal!

University of Siegen opens state-of-the-art 3D printing laboratory for metal!

The University of Siegen opened a new laboratory for 3D printing of metals on the Paul-Bonatz-Straße campus on March 20, 2025. This facility marks another important step in the development of modern manufacturing technologies, which are becoming increasingly important in various industries. The laboratory is specially equipped with two processes: powder bed-based laser melting and laser deposition welding. These technologies are crucial to increasing efficiency and flexibility in metal processing. Powder bed-based laser melting is ideal for the development of complex tools, while laser deposition welding can be used specifically to repair or expand existing components, as the university explains in its report.

The technical equipment of the new laboratory cost a total of 1.6 million euros and is intended to make a significant contribution to the transfer of knowledge between the university and industry. This is intended to promote the settlement of engineers in the region and at the same time secure the job market. Highly funded research projects have already been acquired. The laboratory's safety equipment is also at a high level and includes a filter system for hazardous materials and a new gas storage facility.

Possible applications of additive manufacturing

The possible uses of additive manufacturing in the new laboratory are diverse. The aim is to use recycled metal materials to promote a sustainable circular economy. The integration of intelligent sensors into tools is also being investigated as part of the laboratory activities. Particular hope is placed on the development of new concepts for the e-car industry, which is particularly relevant given the current trends in the automotive industry.

Powder bed-based laser beam melting (LPBF) is one of the best-known additive manufacturing processes. Materials are processed layer by layer using selective laser beam melting, which enables a high level of detail resolution. It is applied in thin layers varying between 10 and 200 µm and selectively melted by a directed laser beam. According to the findings of Fraunhofer IPT, which works closely with the University of Siegen, the LPBF process shows significant advantages, but also has disadvantages in terms of process speed and costs. Nevertheless, work is being done on optimization coupled with hybrid process chains in order to improve the cost-effectiveness and series suitability of additive manufacturing.

Development and future of 3D printing technology in Germany

Additive manufacturing has come a long way in Germany since its beginnings in the 1980s. Important industries such as the automotive industry, aerospace and medical technology have been relying on 3D printing technologies for decades. The first German manufacturer of 3D printing systems, EOS GmbH, was founded in 1989. The political and economic pressure to introduce modern manufacturing technologies is constantly increasing.

In 2023, the market volume for additive manufacturing worldwide is estimated to be around US$20 to US$22 billion, with Germany accounting for around US$2.21 billion, which corresponds to around 11% of the total market. The future prospects show further industrialization and scaling of series production in various industries. Companies like Volkswagen AG have already developed innovative plans to rely heavily on additive manufacturing processes in the near future.

Overall, the new facility at the University of Siegen is an example of the growing importance of additive manufacturing. These technologies could help push the boundaries of traditional manufacturing and bring new, efficient production methods to life. From the automotive industry to aviation to medical technology – the possibilities are almost endless.

The investments and developments at universities and research institutes, as demonstrated by the University of Siegen and the Fraunhofer IPT, will be crucial to ensuring the competitiveness of German industry in the global context of 3D printing technologies. Further information about the developments of additive manufacturing in Germany can be found in the articles from University of Siegen, Fraunhofer IPT and 3D Limitless.