Insights on the Future of Metal Additive Manufacturing 

On 16 October 2025, the METAL MATTERS conference organised at BIOCEV brought together experts and innovators for a day dedicated entirely to the future of metal additive manufacturing (AM).

The event explored the entire production chain – from raw material supply, design and simulation, through manufacturing and post-processing, to funding and collaboration. Czech and international speakers showcased how to make industrial production more efficient, cost-effective, and profitable across all sectors. 

More than 90 participants attended, representing a diverse mix of expertise: from additive manufacturing, materials, and laser processing to simulation, mechanical design, sustainability, and startup support.

This truly reflected the interdisciplinary nature of innovation driving progress in the field. 

Key Takeaways

Metal AM is evolving fast with smarter process control, better digital tools, and AI-driven innovation at the core of its next leap forward. 

Critical Factors for Progress 

METAL MATTERS 2025 highlighted how the sector is rapidly advancing, yet faces complex challenges:

• Ensuring robust process monitoring, securing high-quality raw materials, and meeting demanding certification standards.
• Participants identified process monitoring and control (35%) as the top priority for advancing metal AM, emphasizing the need for real-time quality assurance and precision.
• The way forward lies in combining materials science, digital engineering, and automation to accelerate innovation and address these challenges. 

Confidence in AI & Automation 

Artificial intelligence is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in metal additive manufacturing, moving from experimental pilot projects to increasingly common industrial applications.

Today, AI-powered monitoring and automation are being integrated into design, production, and quality control workflows, enabling real-time process optimisation and “born qualified” parts.

At METAL MATTERS 2025, 65% of participants expressed confidence in AI’s ability to boost efficiency and innovation, reflecting a strong industry belief in the impact of digital tools and automation, while some scepticism remains, the consensus is clear: combining AI, digital engineering, and automation is driving metal AM beyond prototyping towards full-scale, sustainable industrial adoption. 

A huge thank-you to our partner, Brain4Industry, for co-organizing the event with us.

As well as all our media partners Metal Additive Manufacturing magazine, MM Prumyslove spektrum,  Věda výzkum and CZECH Industry for their support and contribution to raising awareness of the topic.

Thank you to everyone who joined and helped make METAL MATTERS 2025 a success, and to collaborate for a better future of Metal Additive Manufacturing!