ASTM Worldwide has introduced various additions to its Powder Mattress Fusion – Laser Beam (PBF-LB) Machine Operator Certification programme.

3D Methods and Nikon SLM Options have now been added to the programme, together with additional steel additive manufacturing (AM) programs from EOS.

The programme was developed by the ASTM Worldwide Additive Manufacturing Middle of Excellence (AM CoE) to supply a benchmark for assessing operations of steel PBF-LB programs, and types half of a bigger certification initiative to guarantee AM machine consistency and reproducibility. The certification gives an illustration of an operator’s talent, competency, and compliance primarily based on the joint ISO/ASTM customary for qualifying machine operators of laser steel PBF machines and gear (ISO/ASTM 52942:2020).

“Structured certification packages are basic to the combination and acceptance of AM applied sciences throughout the trade,” states Dr. Mohsen Seifi, ASTM Worldwide’s vp of world superior manufacturing packages. “This can be a important stride in addressing the trade’s want for licensed personnel and selling a uniform customary of excellence. We anticipate additional growth to different platforms and steady collaboration with important trade gamers to make sure the AM expertise is utilised reliably and proficiently.”

The ASTM certification covers:

• Additive Manufacturing Process Specification (APS)
• Customary working procedures
• Machine administration and construct course of monitoring
• Operator Upkeep of programs
• Powder materials household specialisations

Assessments particular to machine fashions are required for certifying operators of a specific steel platform in response to the usual. This now consists of 3D Methods’ DMP Flex 350; Nikon SLM Options’ SLM 280, SLM 500, and SLM NXG XII 600; and EOS M 400 and EOS M 400-4, along with the EOS M 290 which was the primary machine mannequin launched to this certification program.