Preview of RAPID+TCT 2017

Rapid + TCT will take place May 8-11, 2017 in Pittsburgh, PA at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The long-running 3D printing show will feature a conference lineup of more than 250 expert speakers, Monday morning workshops, tech briefings, networking receptions, and exhibitor hall and more.

The show kicks off the afternoon of May 8 with a remarks from Rob Gorham, who was just appointed as executive director of America Makes on May 1. Autodesk's Mickey McManus' keynote will focus on the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital manufacturing. McManus will lead a panel discussion on how additive manufacturing provides manufacturers with more design freedom and the ability to drastically shorten go-to market times. Executives from 3D Systems, HP, GE Aviation and Materialise will take part in the discussion.

Tuesday's panel focuses on the effect metal 3D printing will have on manufacturing, the medical market for 3D printing is the focus of Wednesday's keynote and panel, while Thursday's presenters predict the future of additive manufacturing.

The exhibit hall opens May 9 and will host more than 330 exhibitors. A networking reception will take place on the show floor Wednesday night, in addition to the welcome reception at Heinz Field on Tuesday evening.

Taking advantage of it's location in Pittsburgh, attendees can elect to tour a number of nearby facilities, including:

• 3D printer system and service provider ExOne to see the company's printing process and manufacturing capabilities;
• the Arconic Technology Center, touted as the world’s largest light metals research center; and
• the MAYA design consultancy and Bally Design studio.

Tech briefings at the show allow attendees to learn the fundamentals of additive manufacturing, 3D scanning, and medical 3D printing; while limited-seating Knowledge Bar sessions cover the details of buying the right 3D printer, metal AM, medical applications, intellectual property and more.

For a full list of events and exhibitors, visit the Rapid +TCT site.

See the latest 3D printing news and new products here.

Read DE's recap of Rapid 2016 here.