rapid.tech 3D 2026: Erfurt bundles exhibition, congress, and certified AM training

From May 5 to 7, 2026, Erfurt will once again put Additive Manufacturing center stage. The rapid.tech 3D links trade fair operations, specialist congress, and networking into an integrated format that addresses the transfer of research results into industrial applications. The target group is development and production managers who want to integrate additive processes into quality-assured value chains.

New is a one-ticket model that bundles access to the exhibition, lecture program, and evening events. The approach aims for short distances between talks and exhibits so that concrete questions—ranging from material qualification and process monitoring to economic scaling—can be discussed directly at the booth with manufacturers and service providers.

The congress will broaden its didactic scope in 2026. In addition to classic sessions, hands-on short courses will be added, offered as certified training in cooperation with Schmalkalden University of Applied Sciences and industry partners such as Siemens, toolcraft, and Fraunhofer. In the AM Science Forum, contributions will be accepted after double-blind review; thematically, the tracks range from powder bed fusion and binder jetting to design for AM, post-processing, and quality assurance. Industry forums address mobility, aerospace, mechanical and plant engineering, as well as chemical and process engineering; the VDMA contributes insights into new application fields and standardization initiatives.

For direct exchange, Technical Deep Dives, guided tours, and Expert Tables are planned. Two evening dates will deepen networking; for the first time, an excellence award of rapid.tech 3D will be presented. Exhibitors can choose between five system booth packages from 6 to 18 square meters, including badges, power, Wi-Fi, and contingents for customer invitations. Early bookers secure price advantages and preferred placement until December 15, 2025.

As a result, the event positions itself as a working trade fair for decision-makers who want to transfer additive processes from the prototype stage into robust series production—with a focus on qualified training, validated research, and direct contact with providers along the AM process chain.