Learn from Danish AM Experts

The session brought together four of Denmark’s absolute frontrunners in 3D printing and to get their insight into what is happening on the Danish AM scene now and in the near future. The panel experts gave their take on developments in materials, technologies and trends – and answered questions from an engaging and curious audience.

The session was moderated by Steffen H. Schmidt, CTO at Danish AM Hub. The panel participants were:

• Michel Honoré, Specialist and Project Manager, 3D Print & AM Technology, FORCE Technology
• Peter Bay, Managing Director and Owner, J. Krebs & Co.
• Sander Skovhus Michelsen, Lead Engineer, Additive Manufacturing, Grundfos
• Jesper Damvig, COO, Prototal Damvig

Where is Denmark in the development and use of 3D Printing technology in comparison to countries around us?

A key discussion is often where Denmark is in comparison to bigger industrial manufacturing countries. One of the answers that gave food for thought was from Sander Michelsen, who talked about his experience with smaller SME companies in Germany, that, despite Germany’s image as a technology nation, were surprisingly behind compared to Denmark in 3D printing. The companies at the forefront of the technology are primarily the biggest manufacturing companies. Given Germany’s size there will naturally be more cases than in Denmark. However, if we compare ourselves on an SME level, Denmark performs extremely well. Denmark is particularly well positioned especially because we embrace the digital changeover, which not many other countries do.

How can we help Danish SMEs to get started with 3D Printing?

In short, the answer is: “get started”. Buy or borrow a 3D printer – AM hub lends them out for free. The first printer is rarely the optimal one, so rather buy a cheaper machine and explore what it can do, said Sander Michelsen.

Grundfos itself has invested in quite a few 3D printers, which stand around in the various departments, so that there is always access to the technology.

This announcement generated a question from the audience about what was available in terms of education. The panel offered suggestions, and both AMU, Nexttech, SDU and others were mentioned, and opportunities for education within the field have been improving within the last couple of years.

Which 3D Printing technology is best to start out with?

The extrusion / filament type FDM/FFF, i.e. the “ordinary” available 3D printers known to most was the unanimous answer from the panelists. It was even suggested that beginners look for models that can work with filament that has a fiber content, as it increases the strength and finish of the 3D prints

The best advice to the audience

“Find an employee who already has an interest in the topic”, “reach out across your network”, “look for training opportunities” and (fortunately) all this good advice also pointed in the direction of what AM Hub offers and stands for.