Blogi: Showcasing the Potential of 3D Printing at 3D-Tulostus Oulu

With over 300 attendees—including industry representatives, entrepreneurs, researchers, engineering students, and designers—the event successfully connected diverse sectors and showcased the vast potential of 3D printing. Severi Salmirinne and Maxim Narbrough represented REDU as part of the 3DTY printing collaboration project, in close cooperation with project partner Future Manufacturing Technologies (FMT).

Unveiling New Horizons

Throughout the day, attendees engaged with industry experts and explored exhibitor booths, delving into the latest advancements in plastic and metal printing. The event provided a unique platform for dialogue on the future of manufacturing, featuring compelling presentations on key topics.

Pekka Ketola, CIO of 3DStep Oy, opened the presentations with insights on Collaborative opportunities between companies and the defense industry, and later in the day on the subject of Three news business opportunities in 3D printing. Following him, Kalle Lepola, CBO of SelectAM, explored three critical aspects of 3D printing: costs, usage, and profitability. His presentation equipped participants with essential knowledge for integrating 3D printing into their business strategies.

A Dive into Algorithmic Design

One of the event’s highlights was REDU’s 3D printing specialist Severi Salmirinne’s presentation on algorithmic design in large-scale 3D printing. An approach that has become an essential tool to overcoming 3D printing challenges in 3DTY collaborative projects. Listeners were particularly intrigued by how algorithms can enhance efficiency and creativity in design and printing processes. Discussions on algorithmic design’s potential for creating complex structures and tailored printing strategies continued throughout the day at the 3DTY booth.

Severi Salmirinne presenting the use of algorithmic design in 3D printing to a packed audience.

Exploring Robotic 3D Printing

Robotic 3D printing, still a relatively niche field in Finland, was another major talking point. Presenters and attendees alike examined the potential advantages of robotic printing in terms of manufacturing speed and flexibility compared to traditional methods. The discussions highlighted a gap in understanding the differences between filament printing and robotic pellet printing. This reinforced the importance of addressing misconceptions about industrial 3D printing technologies and finding ways to lower the barriers to their commercial adoption. Robotics is well established within manufacturing, while robotic 3D-printing has yet to establish itself. Judging by the level of interest this looks set to change fairly quickly.

Innovations in Metal 3D Printing

Metal 3D printing also took center stage, with Antti Järvenpää from the University of Oulu/FMT presenting on functional structures and fatigue-resistant solutions. His talk sparked interest in the innovations in research and development of powdered metal printing, and its applications across industries. Jarmo Kastell, CEO of Delva Oy, followed with an engaging session titled "Metal 3D Printing: Fact or Fiction?"—challenging attendees to critically assess common myths and realities surrounding the technology.

Representatives from Future Manufacturing Technology and Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT) were also present at the 3DTY exhibition booth, sharing valuable insights into their research on WAAM, DED, and other aspects of metal additive manufacturing.

Antti Järvenpää presents research into 3D-printed functional structures and fatigue-resistance. 

An Inspiring Hub for Learning and Networking

The exhibition area was abuzz with activity as leading 3D printing companies and projects showcased innovative applications and expertise. Attendees—from designers exploring new creative possibilities to technology firms seeking advanced prototyping solutions—were presented with an invaluable opportunity to network, collaborate and learn more about the areas of application on display.

With a rich program of presentations, discussions, and even a unique music performance by sound artist Basti Kuhz, who creatively repurposed 3D printers for sound generation, the 3D-Tulostus Oulu event left a lasting impression. It was an inspiring day that not only highlighted advancements in 3D printing but also encouraged attendees to explore how these technologies can drive innovation and efficiency in their respective fields.

Sound artist and creative engineer Basti Kuhz performing his piece Unintended Use of 3D Printers.

The Role of 3DTY in Advancing 3D Printing

The day’s discussions underscored the need for clear demonstrations and explanations of the core methods, limitations, and possibilities of these rapidly evolving technologies. In this context, the 3DTY project plays a crucial role in lowering barriers for companies interested in adopting 3D printing. Teams from LUT, the University of Oulu/FMT, and REDU showcased applications and provided valuable insights into both existing and emerging 3D printing technologies. There is great potential for 3D printing in Finland, and events like 3D-Tulostus Oulu serve as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation in this rapidly evolving industry.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event a success. Special thanks to the organizers from Business Oulu for bringing this event to life. We look forward to the next one!

Maxim Narbrough
Project Manager, 3DTY - printing collaboration project