Thermwood (Dale, Ind., U.S.) is showing the power and versatility of its large-scale additive manufacturing (LSAM) technology with live demonstrations. Each day of the show, Thermwood will 3D print a double-sided RTM mold for an underwater tidal turbine blade using the LSAM Additive Printer 510. These large-scale molds, printed in real time, highlight the speed, scale and precision of Thermwood’s LSAM additive systems, while also offering an up-close look at advanced composites manufacturing in action.

What makes this demonstration especially compelling is the rotating lineup of advanced carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic materials used throughout the event. A different material supplier is being featured each day — Airtech, Techmer and SABIC — with each company’s material being used to print that day’s mold. This format enables attendees to compare material performance and see how the LSAM AP 510 adapts to various high-performance thermoplastics. In addition to the live prints, Thermwood also has on display finished, machined parts created using these same materials, providing attendees a comprehensive view of the production process from pellet to print to part.

The LSAM AP 510 system itself is a compact but large-scale additive solution. With a 5' × 10' fixed table and up to 4' of vertical build space, it is engineered to produce strong, functional and dimensionally stable parts with speed and accuracy. Capable of processing a wide range of high-temperature, fiber-reinforced thermoplastics, the system delivers high deposition rates and thermal control while maintaining the reliability needed for demanding industrial environments. It is especially well suited for applications in aerospace, marine, defense, automotive and energy sectors.

From advanced materials to real-time production, Thermwood says its presence is a working showcase of additive manufacturing at industrial scale. Visitors will leave with a deeper understanding of how LSAM technology can streamline tooling workflows, reduce lead times, cut costs and bring large, complex composite parts to life.