From custom tooling to high-performance components – How Stinako uses metal 3D printing in industrial applications – Interview with Denis Rukelj

Stinako, an industrial engineering firm based in Maribor, Slovenia, has recently expanded its capabilities by integrating metal additive manufacturing into its service portfolio. Established in 2003, the company has a history of specializing in lifting technology installations, piping systems, and maintenance services. The addition of metal 3D printing aligns with Stinako’s commitment to adopting advanced manufacturing technologies. To support this expansion, the company has invested in a TruPrint 3000 metal 3D printer from Trumpf, a system designed for high-precision, industrial-scale additive manufacturing. In an interview with 3Druck.com, Assistant Director Denis Rukelj discusses how Stinako is leveraging metal additive manufacturing to push the boundaries of industrial production and meet evolving industry demands.

The company focuses on several key applications of metal additive manufacturing, particularly in producing complex, high-performance components. One of its projects involves the production of high-performance pump housings using AlSi10Mg aluminum alloy. These housings are designed for optimized fluid flow and weight reduction, making them suitable for industrial applications that require corrosion resistance and durability. Another area of focus is optimized mechanical components, such as brackets and support structures for heavy machinery and the energy sector, benefiting from topology optimization for improved strength and reduced weight.

Stinako also develops custom tooling and fixtures using 316L stainless steel, enhancing wear resistance and precision in manufacturing environments. In the field of thermal management, the company produces heat exchangers and cooling components with intricate internal channels, designed to maximize heat dissipation while minimizing material usage. Additionally, Stinako provides reverse engineering solutions and spare parts manufacturing, allowing for on-demand production of legacy system components without the need for expensive molds, significantly reducing lead times.

By leveraging additive manufacturing, Stinako enhances design flexibility and efficiency while addressing industry-specific challenges. Through collaboration with research institutions and industry partners, the company continues to refine its expertise, ensuring that its clients benefit from the latest advancements in metal 3D printing.

Interview with Denis Rukelj

In an interview with 3Druck.com, Assistant Director Denis Rukelj discusses Stinako’s integration of metal additive manufacturing into their services, highlighting its benefits over traditional methods. He also outlines the company’s focus on producing complex components for industries like aerospace and automotive, emphasizing their commitment to innovation and collaboration within the additive manufacturing sector.

How has demand for metal additive manufacturing changed in recent years, and what key trends do you think have influenced its growth?

Demand for metal additive manufacturing has grown significantly in recent years, driven by the need for lightweight, high-performance components and more efficient production processes. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical are increasingly adopting AM for both prototyping and serial production. Supply chain challenges have also accelerated interest in on-demand manufacturing, reducing reliance on traditional supply networks. Advances in materials, print speed, and automation are further expanding the technology’s potential.

Which industries are benefiting most from metal additive manufacturing, and where do you see the strongest growth in demand?

The biggest adopters are aerospace, automotive, medical, and energy. Aerospace benefits from weight savings and complex geometries, while the automotive and motorsport sectors use AM for custom and high-performance parts. The medical field relies on it for implants and surgical tools. We see strong growth in the automotive and aerospace industries, particularly as companies move toward serial production and more sustainable manufacturing methods.

What major trends or innovations do you expect to shape the future of metal additive manufacturing?

Key trends include process automation, AI-driven optimization, faster production speeds, and improved post-processing. There is also a push toward multi-material printing and more sustainable metal powders. As AM technology becomes more cost-effective, we expect broader adoption in mass production.

As a member of AM Austria, what initiatives and projects is Stinako pursuing to further the development of additive manufacturing technology?

As part of AM AUSTRIA, we focus on expanding industrial applications of metal AM, particularly using AlSi10Mg and 316L. We are working on improving process stability, post-processing techniques, and material efficiency. Collaboration with research institutions and industry partners helps us stay at the forefront of innovation, ensuring our customers benefit from the latest advancements in additive manufacturing.

Here you can find more information about Stinako.