Ljubljana, 16 October 2025 – At yesterday’s award ceremony for the Rector’s Prize for the Best Innovation of the University of Ljubljana, the UL Faculty of Mechanical Engineering achieved a remarkable success: in the category of researchers employed full-time at the University of Ljubljana, the first place was awarded to the innovation called IceJet – cutting with ice instead of sand, and in the category of students, alumni and alumnae of the University of Ljubljana, the first place was awarded to our student Matevž Menart, who created a pellet extruder for 3D printers.
IceJet – cleaner and more efficient cutting
IceJet introduces a new generation of abrasive waterjet cutting (AVC) technology that uses ice particles cooled to cryogenic temperatures instead of mineral sands. They achieve hardness comparable to mineral abrasives and melt after machining, resulting in 99% less waste and a completely clean workpiece. The technology is ideal for industries where cleanliness is key (food, aerospace, shipbuilding). The process only requires water and electricity, which reduces both logistics costs and environmental impact.
The winning team consists of assist. dr. Marko Jerman, assoc. prof. dr. Joško Valentinčič, Pavel Drešar, dipl. eng., assist. prof. dr. Izidor Sabotin and assist. dr. Andrej Lebar.
1st place for the student Matevž Menart
A student of the second level Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering – Research and Development programme has designed a lightweight pellet extruder for 3D printers that can be fitted to all existing models. The key advantage of the device is its extremely low weight, achieved through the use of unconventional materials, which allows for faster movement and shorter printing times. The extruder features a special wear surface that prolongs its life, allowing the ‘heart’ of the machine to be replaced in just three minutes. After replacement, the machine’s performance is restored to the same standard as when it was first used. The system also includes a proprietary calibration programme that automatically adjusts the material flow based on previous measurements to ensure accurate, even printing.
Jubilee Rector’s Awards ceremony
For 15 years, the UL Rector’s Award has been recognising the most promising technological and social innovations in cooperation with the Ljubljana University Incubator. The award, which is considered one of the most prestigious university awards in the field of innovation, promotes the entrepreneurial and innovative potential of students, researchers, and alumni of the University of Ljubljana and strengthens the integration of academic knowledge with the economy and society.
The double win confirms the cutting-edge research and development environment at FS UL and the outstanding integration of laboratory results, student projects, and industrial needs – from advanced manufacturing technologies to breakthroughs in additive manufacturing. (Learn more about IceJet technology on the UL innovation pages.)
Congratulations to all the other award winners!