3D-Printmaster is a specialist reseller based in Baden-Württemberg focusing on solutions for additive manufacturing. The company distributes 3D printing systems for various technologies, including FDM, SLA and SLS, as well as the corresponding materials and peripheral equipment. The portfolio is complemented by 3D scanners used to digitize parts for reverse-engineering and quality-assurance tasks.
In addition to sales, the provider places a strong emphasis on services. These include technical consulting, user training, and maintenance and repair support. The goal is not only to supply hardware but also to assist customers in building stable additive workflows. A dedicated 3D printing service is also part of the offering, enabling companies to test additive processes or cover production peaks without immediate investment.
The offering is primarily aimed at companies and educational institutions seeking to integrate additive manufacturing into existing processes in a structured way. This positions 3D-Printmaster as an interface between equipment manufacturers and users, with a clear focus on know-how and support alongside hardware.
Interview with Oliver Hörth
In the interview with 3Druck.com, Managing Director Oliver Hörth discusses how additive manufacturing has evolved from a pure prototyping tool into a practical production technology and which typical misconceptions he repeatedly encounters among customers. He also comments on current industry trends and outlines the developments he believes will shape the future of 3D printing.
Which technological developments in 3D printing have had the greatest impact on practice in recent years, and where were expectations too high in your view?
Managing Director Oliver Hörth
Processes such as SLS, FDM and SLA now offer significantly higher process stability, repeatability and industrial reliability. As a result, additive manufacturing is increasingly used for functional end-use parts as well as small and medium series. At the same time, major increases in printing speed across almost all technologies have improved economic viability, particularly in the FDM and SLA segments.
Material innovations have also broadened application possibilities. High-performance polymers, fiber-reinforced materials, foaming compounds, silicones and advanced metal powders enable applications that were previously not feasible from a technical or economic standpoint.
Software development plays a central role as well. Modern slicers and process software actively support users, reduce failed builds and simplify operation. They are no longer just tools but provide intelligent assistance.
Which typical misconceptions or mistakes do you encounter among customers when dealing with 3D printing technologies, and how do your consulting, training and service offerings help to avoid them?
One of the most common misconceptions is underestimating the capabilities of additive manufacturing. Many companies still view 3D printing primarily as a prototyping tool and transfer conventional design patterns from machining or injection molding almost unchanged to additive processes. This leaves significant potential, such as functional integration, part consolidation, complex internal structures or weight-optimized geometries, unused.
Through training, we help customers develop an additive mindset and demonstrate in practical terms how existing products and components can be rethought. We support them from the initial entry level through to professional applications, while our service offerings ensure that challenges are addressed efficiently and the full economic potential of additive manufacturing is realized.
Which applications and fields do you currently consider particularly promising, and where do you see untapped potential?
3D printing shows strong potential in the production of functional end-use parts as well as in medical technology and prosthetics. Here, the strengths of additive manufacturing become evident: rapid customization, complex geometries and short lead times.
We see unused potential above all in integrating 3D printing into established production chains. Many companies still use additive manufacturing in isolation instead of strategically combining it with conventional methods. On-demand production also offers significant opportunities.
Looking ahead five years, which fundamental developments will shape additive manufacturing, and what changes do you expect for the industry as a whole?
We anticipate increasing automation, improved process monitoring and comprehensive quality assurance, which will allow 3D printing to be integrated more deeply into series production. Another focus will be the continued development and diversification of materials, enabling new applications while expanding existing ones.
At the same time, many processes will become simpler, allowing companies to respond more flexibly and quickly to requirements. Overall, 3D printing will continue to mature, gain economic relevance and become an integral part of modern production chains.
