Rapid.Tech 3D Erfurt

Rapid.Tech 3D is an international trade fair for additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing, held annually since 2013 at the state-of-the-art exhibition center in Erfurt, Thuringia. Its name symbolically reflects the rapid technological progress in the fields of rapid prototyping and related technologies—enhanced by the "3D" suffix as a clear reference to industrial 3D printing. This combination effectively encapsulates the event’s core focus and objectives.

Organized by Messe Erfurt GmbH, one of the largest trade fair companies in Eastern Germany, Rapid.Tech 3D is more than just a product exhibition. It serves as a platform for innovation, knowledge exchange, and future-oriented thinking in the industrial application of additive manufacturing. Located in a region with growing industrial expertise and technological development potential, the fair acts as a catalyst for the digitalization and transformation of production in German-speaking countries and beyond. It is specifically tailored to professionals and decision-makers from sectors such as aerospace, automotive, mechanical engineering, medical technology, chemicals, electronics, defense, energy, and robotics. Alongside insights into the latest technological advancements, it offers practical applications, real-world solutions, and access to a high-level professional network.

Core topics include additive manufacturing in aerospace, software-driven product development, artificial intelligence, future mobility concepts, automated production processes, and sustainable energy and hydrogen technologies. Exhibits feature the latest 3D printing systems, advanced materials and components, digital design tools, post-processing techniques, metrology, simulation software, and cutting-edge research from both industry and academia. The program also includes services such as consulting, data generation, contract manufacturing, and professional training initiatives.

A distinctive characteristic of Rapid.Tech 3D is its strong specialization: unlike broad-based 3D printing or consumer fairs, it focuses exclusively on industrial applications of additive processes. This concept is further enriched by a high-level technical conference, thematically structured forums, and a dedicated start-up area.

Exhibitors include leading industrial companies, innovative start-ups, research institutions, and specialized service providers from Germany and abroad. Attendees—primarily engineers, developers, decision-makers, and scientists—travel from across Europe and beyond to explore technological trends, initiate collaborations, and prepare investment decisions.

In summary, Rapid.Tech 3D is a key industry gathering for industrial 3D printing applications, offering a unique combination of trade fair, conference, and innovation platform. Messe Erfurt provides the ideal setting for this event—with its architecturally modern venue, direct motorway and high-speed rail connections, and proximity to the historic city center. For anyone engaged in the future of manufacturing technology, Rapid.Tech 3D offers direct access to the innovations of tomorrow.

The Rapid.Tech 3D will take place on 3 days from Tuesday, 05. May to Thursday, 07. May 2026 in Erfurt.