Additive manufacturing in focus: LZH showcases research projects from lightweight design to agriculture

The Laser Zentrum Hannover (LZH) is using Formnext 2025 in Frankfurt to underscore its role as a development partner for industrial additive manufacturing. At the joint booth of the German federal states of Bremen and Hesse in Hall 12.0, Stand C22, the institute is demonstrating how laser-based 3D printing processes can be advanced from material development through to application-oriented demonstrators.

One focus is on demanding materials. These include magnesium alloys which, due to their low density and biocompatibility, are of interest for lightweight components in medical technology. In parallel, LZH is working on additively manufactured glass components. With laser-assisted process control, it is possible to produce optical freeform surfaces, integrated waveguide systems and structural-mechanical components that are difficult to access using conventional forming or grinding processes.

Beyond the material side, the researchers are developing customized special systems. These include equipment for manufacturing in an almost oxygen-free atmosphere, specially designed process heads for laser cladding, and methods for designing load-optimized structures, for example for dental implants. LZH addresses the topic of sustainability with additive repair strategies: laser cladding and single-crystal cladding are intended to extend the service life of highly stressed components in mechanical engineering, agricultural technology and aviation, and to enable repairs directly at the point of use, for example in shipbuilding.

Special attention is also being paid to small and medium-sized enterprises, skilled trades and agricultural businesses. Here, LZH is demonstrating how functionally adapted tools can be created using 3D printing to make processes such as seed application more efficient. This work builds on results from the Niedersachsen ADDITIV project.

At Formnext, LZH aims not only to present technologies but also to initiate collaborations. Companies can obtain advice on projects, funding opportunities and the integration of additive processes into existing manufacturing landscapes – from metal and polymer processing through to glass-based applications.