Why TCT 3Sixty Is the UK’s Must-Attend Event for AM
For designers, engineers, manufacturing leads, and procurement professionals, TCT 3Sixty offers a rare opportunity: a live, tactile exploration of the full 3D printing and additive manufacturing ecosystem. As Britain’s flagship event in this space, it brings together machines, materials, software, service providers, and experts under one roof—making it the most comprehensive additive manufacturing gathering in the UK .
Spanning from early-stage prototyping through to serial production and post-processing, the event helps professionals evaluate, adopt, and optimise AM technology—offering both technical enrichment and hands-on experience.
When and Where
Mark your calendars for 4–5 June 2025 at the NEC Birmingham (Hall 3) . Doors open at 09:30, and the event runs until 17:00 on Day 1 and 16:00 on Day 2 . For those seeking early access, VIP entry begins at 09:30, with general admission from 10:00 .
Tickets and Entry
Entry is free for industry professionals, with simple online registration required in advance. While general admission is complimentary, optional passes are available for paid conferences, workshops, and awards ceremony access .
Accommodation and Access
Hotels
- On-site and adjacent: Hilton Birmingham Metropole, Voco St John’s offer convenience and comfort.
- Nearby chains: Premier Inn, Holiday Inn, Travelodge offer practical and affordable stays.
- City centre hotels: Easily reached via train or car, these provide more variety for longer visitors.
Transport
- NEC is a short walk from Birmingham International Station, connected to the airport by a free train shuttle
- Free on-site parking is available with advance booking, saving around £5
- Major motorways (M5, M6, M42) offer easy car access.
What to Expect
1. Premier Exhibition of AM Technology
With over 300 exhibitors, expect a showcase of polymer printers, metal-printing systems, post-process solutions, software tools, powders, and contractual services.
2. Conference Sessions
A packed programme across two stages delivers dozens of talks covering sectors like aerospace, automotive, medical, dental, and conservation—with participation from MOD, Natural History Museum, GKN Aerospace, and others. Sessions include AI-enabled workflows, digital twins, end-use applications, and policy impact.
3. Live Demonstrations
Watch material extrusion, laser sintering, binder jetting, metal printing, post-processing, and automated workflows in action. The “Knowledge Bar” offers on-the-spot technical advice from experts.
4. Awards and Competitions
The TCT Awards ceremony recognises excellence across technology, applications, rising talent, and women in 3D printing. PrintCity design challenges showcase creativity in real time.
5. Networking and Innovation Zones
Spaces dedicated to startups and innovation include Innovation Alley and the STEM zone. Networking drinks take place after Day 1, encouraging connection with industry leaders, exhibitors, and peers.
Key Benefits of Attendance
Full-Spectrum Technology Evaluation
Explore everything from desktop printers to industrial-scale production suites—understanding strengths, limitations, and adopters’ real-world use cases .
Technical Learning and Inspiration
Gain confidence through practical case studies—like how the MOD uses AM or how museum artefacts are reproduced.
Hands-On Experience
See machines in motion. Speak with OEMs and technicians about performance, maintenance, material properties, and integration status.
Advance Your Network
Connect with 5,000–10,000 attendees—ranging from engineers and designers to buyers and AM specialists. Use the show’s app to schedule meetings and plan around sessions.
Shape Future Capabilities
Stay ahead of the curve by exploring emerging technologies—like AI-driven optimisation, bespoke materials, or Tooling-of-Things—all featured in Innovation Alley and awards .
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Register early to reserve optional conference sessions and parking.
- Download the event app to build your agenda and network in advance.
- Map your priority zones: demo floor, Innovation Alley, Knowledge Bar.
- Bring essentials: business cards, notebook/tablet, charger, and camera.
- Attend at least one keynote and one technical panel—sessions fill up fast.
- Join networking drinks after Day 1.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the venue spans a large footprint.
- Collect materials: brochures, white papers, presentation summaries.
Who Should Attend
TCT 3Sixty caters to:
- Product designers and R&D engineers
- Manufacturing engineers and process leads
- Procurement and operations managers
- Medical device and dental professionals
- Aerospace and defence technologists
- Educators, students, and STEM promoters
- Investors and innovation scouts
If you’re exploring, adopting, or scaling 3D printing and additive manufacturing in your workflow, this is your central forum.
Final Takeaways
TCT 3Sixty 2025 is more than an industry gathering—it’s a catalyst for industrial growth and digital transformation. Combining live demos, sector-wide conference talks, awards, networking and strategic insights, this event delivers unmatched value in additive manufacturing.
Book your days at NEC Birmingham on 4–5 June 2025 to experience the future of manufacturing—from concept to creation.
Visit and book your tickets here: https://www.tct3sixty.com