As metal AM moves deeper into production applications, many manufacturers are discovering that traditional simulation approaches for part distortion and failure mode prediction do not address the needs of the modern AM market.

(31st March 2026, State College, Pennsylvania, USA) PanOptimization, developer of the PanX simulation and optimization platform for metal additive manufacturing (AM), will exhibit at RAPID + TCT 2026 in Boston, April 13-16. Visitors can meet the team at Booth 2142 to discuss simulation and optimization strategies for the most demanding laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and directed energy deposition (DED) AM applications.

As metal AM moves deeper into production applications, many manufacturers are discovering that traditional simulation approaches for part distortion and failure mode prediction do not address the needs of the modern AM market.

The old simulation tools were architected primarily to predict distortion and stress trends on small to medium size and complexity parts. The highest-value parts (those with extreme geometric complexity and large footprints) cannot be simulated at the required resolution. Meshing and memory requirements grow rapidly, runtimes become incompatible with program schedules, and teams can find themselves reverting to costly trial-and-error AM prints for projects where failure is most expensive.

Erik Denlinger, Co-Founder and Chief Engineer at PanOptimization says, "PanX is an enabling technology that allows users to accelerate design, manufacturing, and qualification for even the largest and most complex components, eliminating trial and error builds. PanX is designed to fit seamlessly into existing production workflows and goes far beyond just distortion prediction, allowing for not just prediction but also optimization of most thermal or mechanical issues that occur during the build process."

At RAPID + TCT, PanOptimization will invite attendees to bring their most challenging geometries and build problems for discussion regarding where simulation-driven optimization can materially reduce risk, shorten development cycles, and improve the economics of production. Attendees can also schedule a free trial of PanX.

To schedule a discussion during RAPID + TCT 2026, visit PanOptimization at Booth 2142,Tuesday April 14 through Thursday April 16 at the Thomas M. Menino Convention &Exhibition Center, Boston, MA.

www.panoptimization.com