From April 22–24, 2026, Aachen will once again become the hub of the international laser community: The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT is hosting the 15th International Laser Technology Congress (AKL’26). The VDMA Working Group Laser and Laser Systems for Material Processing supports the congress as a conceptional sponsor.
With over 500 participants, more than 80 expert presentations, and around 50 exhibitors, AKL’26 provides a comprehensive platform for knowledge exchange between industry and research. The event addresses users, manufacturers, and developers across the entire laser technology value chain.
The congress opens with the Technology Business Day, offering market analyses, global photonics trends, and practical industry insights from sectors such as automotive, aerospace, microelectronics, energy, and medical technology.
The following days focus on the Technological Conferences. Four parallel sessions cover laser material processing, beam source development, system technology, digitalization, and AI-supported production. Emerging research areas – including high‑energy lasers for fusion applications and next‑generation secondary sources – showcase future opportunities for photonics.
A panel discussion with leading industry representatives highlights the potential and challenges of using high‑energy and high‑power lasers in industrial production.
AKL’26 thus provides a neutral, cross‑industry platform where companies can gain impulses for future manufacturing strategies and technological advancements.
Further information and registration: www.lasercongress.org