Emerging 3‑D Printing Technologies to Watch in 2026

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While most engineers are still mastering today’s additive processes, a new wave of technologies is approaching commercialization. Volumetric printing generates entire parts simultaneously in transparent resin baths, dramatically reducing layer lines. High‑speed stereolithography flights resin droplets under controlled humidity, curing them mid‑air for record build rates. Cold‑spray deposition accelerates metal powder to supersonic velocities, consolidating it below melting temperature and enabling large‑scale structural repairs.

Volumetric approaches promise isotropic mechanical properties and surface finishes rivaling injection‑molded plastic. High‑speed SLA could compete with mass‑production methods for small polymer parts by hitting build speeds measured in centimeters per minute. Cold‑spray technology stands to revolutionize field maintenance by depositing structural aluminum or titanium directly onto damaged aircraft frames without inducing a heat‑affected zone.

The technology horizon is expanding rapidly. Engineers who track volumetric, high‑speed photopolymer, and cold‑spray developments today will be prepared to exploit them as soon as commercial machines drop in price and size.

References

Journal of Additive Manufacturing, “Volumetric Printing: State of the Art,” 2025; NASA Tech Briefs, “Cold‑Spray Repairs for Aerospace Structures,” March 2025.

Target Keywords: volumetric 3D printing, high‑speed SLA, cold‑spray deposition, manufacturing technology, prototyping trends 

About This Blog

Mantix Engineering curates these articles to spark fresh thinking around mechanical design, prototyping, and advanced manufacturing. Topics rotate intentionally, so whether you model injection‑molded parts, tune CNC tool paths, or explore next‑generation additive processes, you’ll always find something new to learn.

Need hands‑on support for your next project? Visit Mantix Engineering to see how our engineers can accelerate your product from concept to production.

 


Location: Seattle, WA, USA

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