This issue of the DEFORM newsletter introduces select new features from recent DEFORM releases.

• Capabilities for gas/lube trapping have been expanded with interface enhancements, new contact display options and vent channel support.
• Practical 3D modeling methods for friction welding (LFW) applications have been implemented in DEFORM-3D.
• The Python-based DEFORM-API programming interface provides a powerful means for integrating DEFORM with automation, optimization and artificial intelligence (AI) systems.