In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld interviews Alex Oster, Director of Additive Manufacturing at Autodesk. The conversation spans Alex's journey from his early career in 1998 in Bavaria to his current influential role at Autodesk. They delve into the evolution of the additive manufacturing industry, from its early days to the current market dynamics and innovations, including the impact of AI and simulation technologies.  

Alex shares stories from his time at FIT and Netfabb, including the challenges and innovations they faced. He explains Autodesk's strategy of integrating specialized tools into one cohesive platform, Fusion 360, which offers comprehensive solutions for both industrial and mass-market applications. They also discuss the crucial role of workforce development and the importance of making advanced manufacturing tools accessible to students and professionals. The episode concludes with thoughts on the future of additive manufacturing and the impact of AI on the industry. 

01:09 Alex's Journey into Additive Manufacturing 

02:32 Early Industry Challenges and Innovations 

07:29 Growth and Development of NetFabb 

12:16 Impact of FDM Revolution 

21:32 Autodesk Acquisition and Integration 

30:13 Fusion 360: A Comprehensive Tool 

37:31 Workforce Development and Industry Adoption 

47:15 The Rise of Low-Cost Machines 

48:29 The Evolution of Metal Additive Manufacturing 

49:43 Western Machine Vendors and Market Dynamics 

50:03 High-End Custom Machines and Industry Trends 

53:49 AI's Role in Additive Manufacturing 

54:44 Autodesk's Product Strategy and Market Position 

56:52 Simulation and Surrogate Modeling 

01:10:01 Challenges in Polymer Simulation 

01:11:30 AI and Computer Vision in Manufacturing 

01:14:30 The Future of Manufacturing Integration 

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld welcomes Brad Rothenberg, CEO and founder of nTop, formerly known as nTopology. They discuss the evolution of additive manufacturing and nTop’s role over the past three to four years. Topics include the founding story of nTop, the concept of implicit modeling, and how design tools have rapidly changed. Brad shares insights on using nTop for aviation design, thermal management, and heat exchanger design, pointing out the shift from traditional CAD to innovative parametric modeling for effective engineering solutions. They also explore the future impact of AI on engineering and how nTop is integrating AI to enhance design processes. The episode closes with a look at educational resources and training for engineers new to nTop. 

1:37 The Founding Story of nTop 

05:07 Implicit Modeling and Design Evolution 

10:22 nTop's Impact on the Aviation Industry 

19:32 Thermal Management and Heat Exchangers 

31:05 Recreating Existing Models in nTop  

2:16 Intern Projects: Building Gliders and Drones 

33:44 Understanding Process Knowledge in 3D Printing 

34:59 Custom Blocks and Design Rules in nTop 

37:08 N Top's Role in Legacy and New Designs 

38:17 Future Roadmap: Integration and Simulation 

44:16 AI and Machine Learning in nTop 

57:54 Lowering Barriers for Engineers 

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld welcomes Carolyn Schwaar, the editor of All3DP.com. Together, they explore current trends in additive manufacturing, the transition of hobbyists to professionals, and the role of platforms like All3DP and Kraft Cloud in the industry. Carolyn shares success stories from readers who have integrated 3D printing into their professional lives, the impact of tariffs on the industry, and the importance of reliable resources for learning about additive manufacturing. They also discuss the rise of specialized contract manufacturers and how the accessibility of 3D printing services is transforming various sectors. 

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. 

For more information about ALL3DP, visit their website and connect with Carolyn Schwaar on LinkedIn. 

01:51 Overview of All3DP.com 

03:01 Craft Cloud and 3D Printing Services 

04:41 Transition from Hobbyist to Professional 

07:48 Resources for Industrial Additive Manufacturing 

12:29 Contract Manufacturing Insights 

18:20 Global Trends and Tariffs Impact 

30:09 European Market and Defense Applications 

34:40 Favorite Additive Manufacturing Stories 

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld explores the critical role of mathematics in additive manufacturing with guest Harshil Goel, founder, and CEO of Dyndrite. Harshil shares his unconventional entry into the additive manufacturing industry, driven by his deep background in mathematics and mechanical engineering. The conversation delves into how Dyndrite's software provides solutions for complex additive manufacturing challenges, from data preparation to materials and process development. 

Harshil also discusses various customer success stories and how their software helps streamline qualification processes, ultimately enhancing productivity. Additionally, they discussed the upcoming Dyndrite roadshow aimed at educating users on advanced additive manufacturing techniques, featuring hands-on sessions and practical demonstrations.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. 

For more information about Dyndrite’s innovative solutions, visit their website and connect with Harshil Goel on LinkedIn.     

01:17 Meet Harshil Go: From Mathematics to Additive Manufacturing

02:33 The Birth of Dyndrite: Solving Software Challenges

05:22 Understanding Dyndrite's Core Offerings

09:53 Dyndrite's Unique Approach to Build Preparation

15:07 Customer Success Stories and Real-World Applications

19:47 Empowering Engineers with Python Integration

23:04 Learning and Adapting to Dyndrite's Tools

26:51 Multilingual Proficiency and Family Background

27:36 Transitioning to Coding and Tool Integration

28:17 Optimizing Production with Dendrite

30:05 Challenges and Innovations in Qualification

33:20 Deep Dive into Aviation Qualification

39:17 Additive Manufacturing Industry Trends

43:09 The Role of GPUs and AI in Additive Manufacturing

45:59 Dyndrite Roadshow and Conclusion

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld explores the importance of automating powder removal in the additive manufacturing (AM) process with Hemank Raj, Process Development Engineer from Solukon. They discuss how automating this process, which may seem minor, is crucial for scaling production and ensuring high-quality outputs in the industry. Hemank provides insights on the background of Solukon, which evolved from an engineering consultancy to a key player in automated depowdering solutions. They delve into the technical aspects, including the steps and benefits of automated depowdering, the safety advantages, and the key factors to consider in the design and production stages. 

The episode highlights the significant impact of automated de-powdering on sectors like aerospace, medical, automotive, and energy by improving efficiency, safety, and reliability. Hemank also shares upcoming innovations, such as integrating robotic arms to further enhance the de-powdering process.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. For more information about Solukon, visit their website and connect with Hemank Raj on LinkedIn.

01:00 Guest Introduction: Hemank Raj from Solukon

01:14 The Importance of Automating Powder Removal

02:00 Solukon's Journey and Market-Driven Innovation

03:52 Automated Depowdering Process Explained

08:49 Challenges and Solutions in Depowdering Large Parts

14:18 Ensuring Quality and Safety in Depowdering

15:39 Programming and Customizing Depowdering Systems

21:43 Design Considerations for Automated Depowdering

23:42 Understanding the L by D Ratio

24:05 Smooth Internal Channels and Surface Roughness

24:46 Introducing SPR Pathfinder Software

26:04 Design Considerations and Best Practices

26:50 Advanced Depowdering Techniques

29:12 Post-Depowdering Steps

33:46 Challenges with Specific Materials

37:12 Industry Applications and Innovations

42:01 Future of Automated Depowdering

In a special live episode of the Additive Snack Podcast recorded at RAPID + TCT 2025 in Detroit, host Fabian Alefeld welcomes Dr. Andreas Vlahinos, a leading expert in design and additive manufacturing. The conversation spans the evolution of design for additive manufacturing over recent years, focusing on advances in simulation-driven design and the integration of implicit and voxel-based tools within CAD environments. Dr. Vlahinos shares insights on overcoming challenges in the industry, his experience with impactful projects like custom medical implants and high-performance heat exchangers, and the importance of collaboration between design and manufacturing teams. The episode also touches on fostering innovation and inspiring the next generation of engineers to embrace the transformative possibilities of additive manufacturing. 

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.  For more information about Advanced Engineering Solutions, visit their website and connect with Dr. Andreas Vlahinos on LinkedIn.   

00:23 Meet Dr. Andreas Vlahinos: A Pioneer in Additive Manufacturing 

01:26 Evolution of Design for Additive Manufacturing 

03:24 Simulation-Driven Design: The Game Changer 

06:34 Challenges and Progress in Additive Manufacturing Tools 

10:03 Exciting Projects: From Heat Exchangers to Life-Saving Implants 

14:28 Designing Efficient Heat Exchangers 

22:24 Design Variables and Exploration 

23:39 Manufacturability Challenges 

25:44 Manufacturing Process Simulation 

28:21 Collaboration in Design and Manufacturing 

30:04 Passion and Inspiration in Engineering 

35:44 Innovative Design Examples 

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld discusses the intersection of finance and additive manufacturing with Danny Piper, Managing Partner at New Cap Partners live at RAPID + TCT 2025. Danny, also the host of the Printing Money podcast, shares his expertise on the financial landscape of additive manufacturing, the challenges and opportunities within the industry, and his views on current economic turbulences and their impact on the sector. The conversation delves into New Cap Partners' focus on emerging technologies, the role of defense spending in additive manufacturing, and the potential future growth of the industry influenced by reshoring and advancements in technology. Danny provides a comprehensive look at financing strategies for new technologies and the importance of understanding technical details to make informed financial decisions. The episode concludes with insights into the future of additive manufacturing in relation to economic and manufacturing trends. 

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.  Listen to the Printing Money podcast here & connect with Danny Piper on LinkedIn.  

00:18 Meet Danny Piper: Finance and Additive Manufacturing Expert 

01:22 Understanding New Cap Partners 

02:38 Investment Banking in Emerging Technologies 

04:27 Danny Piper's Journey into 3D Printing 

09:26 Financial Turbulence and Additive Manufacturing 

14:13 Reshoring and Its Impact on Additive Manufacturing 

18:21 Stock Market Insights for Additive Manufacturing 

22:50 Challenges in Scaling Manufacturing 

24:59 The Role of the Department of Defense in Additive Manufacturing 

25:23 The Role of the DOD in Additive Manufacturing 

26:48 Investment Trends in 3D Printing 

29:27 Challenges in Financing Manufacturing Innovations 

33:07 The Rise of Additive Contract Manufacturers 

40:51 Future Trends and Predictions in Additive Manufacturing

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld speaks with Arno Held, co-founder and managing partner of AM Ventures. Recording live from RAPID + TCT 2025, they discuss the current state and future outlook of the additive manufacturing landscape, touching on startup trends, the impacts of global tariffs, and increased defense spending. Arno shares insights into the industry's financial pressures, the growing significance of AI in additive manufacturing, and the challenges startups face in navigating financial turbulence. 

They also dive into the roles and missions of AM Ventures and its focus on hardware, software, and application-driven startups. Despite the hurdles, the conversation ends on an optimistic note about the transformative potential of additive manufacturing over the next few years.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. 

For more information about AM Ventures, visit their website and connect with Arno Held on LinkedIn. 

00:57 Current Financial Landscape in Additive Manufacturing

04:28 Impact of Political Changes on Additive Manufacturing

08:14 Overview of AM Ventures

09:30 Trends in Additive Manufacturing Startups

13:52 The Role of AI in Additive Manufacturing

21:02 Challenges Facing Additive Manufacturing Startups

27:43 Future Outlook and Regional Growth

33:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld welcomes guests from the University of Wolverhampton — Arun Arjunan, John Robinson, and Manpreet Singh. They delve into the university's significant contributions to additive manufacturing over the past 25 years, discussing their pioneering work in laser powder bed fusion, material science innovations, and the launch of their Center of Excellence for Additive Manufacturing. They highlight collaborative projects with industry, including groundbreaking developments in copper diamond composites, and address the integration of additive manufacturing in various sectors such as healthcare, electrification, and sustainability. The conversation also emphasizes the university's role in workforce development and the importance of reshoring manufacturing capabilities.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.  

For more information about the University of Wolverhampton, visit their website here.

01:52 Early Adoption and Innovations in Additive Manufacturing

04:36 Focus on Copper and Thermal Management

07:00 Sustainability and Healthcare Applications

21:37 Center of Excellence and Future Directions

33:27 Exploring Material Development in Academia

34:07 Innovative Copper and Diamond Research

35:23 Applications and Cost of Diamond Composites

35:51 Collaborations and Industry Impact

42:12 University's Role in Additive Manufacturing

49:19 Future of Additive Manufacturing

56:20 Reshoring and Sustainable Manufacturing

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld chats with Douglas Woods, President of AMT, about the evolving landscape of manufacturing. They discuss the significance of AI, robotics, and macroeconomic factors affecting the industry. Doug shares insights from his extensive background in manufacturing, including family history and personal experiences. They delve into the role of AI in optimizing manufacturing processes, the future of humanoid robotics, and the intersection of emerging technologies with additive manufacturing. The episode also explores the impact of reshoring and geopolitical shifts on global supply chains, offering practical advice for companies navigating the future of localized production. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on how advancements in technology are shaping the future of manufacturing.

Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS. 

For more information about AMT, visit their website and connect with Doug Woods on LinkedIn. 

02:01 Doug Woods' Family History in Manufacturing

06:16 The Importance of Apprenticeship Programs

06:54 Challenges in Workforce Development

14:54 The Role of AI in Manufacturing

20:21 Generative vs. Agentic AI

22:50 AI's Impact on Additive Manufacturing

30:14 The Future of Digital Twins and Omniverse

37:42 Democratization of Manufacturing Technology

39:42 Sustainability in Business Practices

41:12 The Rise of Robotics in Manufacturing

43:18 Humanoid Robotics: The Next Frontier

50:51 Additive Manufacturing in Robotics

57:25 Geopolitical Shifts and Reshoring Manufacturing

01:09:17 Advice for Embracing New Technologies

01:14:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts