Exploring Cutting-Edge Additive Manufacturing Technologies and
Advancing Korea-U.S. Defense 3D Printing Collaboration
Participation in Formnext 2024
From November 21-24, 2024, representatives from the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology’s 3D Printing Manufacturing Innovation Center (KAMIC) attended Formnext 2024, the world’s largest 3D printing exhibition held in Frankfurt, Germany, featuring over 800 exhibitors. The team aimed to explore the latest trends in additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, including equipment, materials, and software innovations, while strengthening Korea’s global competitiveness through strategic meetings with key industry leaders.
Defense Cooperation and Meetings
KAMIC also facilitated meetings with Korea’s Ministry of National Defense and key defense-related organizations, including the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), and major companies such as Doosan Enerbility, Hanwha Systems, KAI, Huneed, and STACO. Discussions centered on expanding AM technology applications in the defense sector and developing a Korean Defense 3D Printing Roadmap.
KAMIC also didn’t miss the chance to have a Korea-U.S. Defense 3D Printing Cooperation Meeting on site with notable participants, including:
- U.S. Representatives: Dr. Brett Conner(DoD, JAMWG), Elisa Peters (DoD, JAMWG), Jim Zunino, Dr. Ben Hormann (U.S. Army), Josh Heller (U.S. Navy)
- Korean Representatives: Colonel Jinkyu Kim, Major Uiseong Choi (Ministry of National Defense), Manager Manki Ahn (ADD), Dr. Yong Son (KAMIC)
The meeting addressed RSF (Regional Support Facility) Policy Development in response to global geopolitical uncertainties. The two sides discussed ways to integrate 3D printing technologies into military logistics and supply chain infrastructure.
Insights from Global AM Industry Leaders
Emerging AM Technologies and Data-Driven Platforms
KAMIC also explored innovations in AM data management platforms such as EOS Connect, DMG MORI, and Voxeljet’s modular 3D printing systems. These platforms utilize real-time sensor data, environmental monitoring, and process optimization to advance additive manufacturing capabilities, transforming digital manufacturing into scalable industrial applications.
Witnessed the AM Technology for Very Large Part
The delegation conducted in-depth investigations into advanced manufacturing solutions from global leaders such as Voxeljet, a world-leading binder jetting technology company based in Munich. During the site visit, KAMIC reviewed Voxeljet’s operations, including its 9m x 7m ultra-large 3D printer designed for manufacturing large components for the energy and defense sectors. Voxeljet’s collaboration with U.S.-based Danko Arlington, Inc., a key supplier to the U.S. Department of Defense, highlighted opportunities for Korean 3D printing companies to enter global defense supply chains.
Future Prospects
KAMIC’s participation in Formnext 2024 reaffirmed the center’s commitment to strengthening Korea’s 3D printing capabilities and fostering international collaboration. Through global industry engagement, KAMIC aims to elevate Korea’s role in defense and industrial 3D printing on the world stage. 🚀
