Introduction of Additive Manufacturing Certification
ASTM International‘s Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM CoE) has launched a new certification program. It aims to improve quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and process control within the Additive Manufacturing (AM) supply chain. This new initiative is a game-changer for manufacturers looking to standardize and elevate the quality of their additive manufacturing processes.
The certification framework will focus on industry-specific requirements. This ensures it is tailored to meet the demands of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). By aligning with international standards like ISO/ASTM 52901, ISO/ASTM 52904, and ISO/ASTM 52920, the certification will set a clear and rigorous path for AM companies to follow. This improves the overall integrity of the industry.
Key Players Collaborate for AM Certification Success
ASTM International worked closely with key industry players to develop the certification program. More than 25 end users, including major companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Safran, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors, participated in the Additive Manufacturing Certification Committee (AMCC). This collaboration ensured the program aligns with the specific needs of the AM sector. Also, it maintains high-quality benchmarks.
The certification program will help manufacturers unlock the full potential of AM for high-performance applications. According to Dr. Martin White, the director of technical operations for ASTM International, “This initiative helps bridge a critical gap in qualifying manufacturers that need to meet both industry and regulatory demands.”
Pilot Audits Show Success Across Multiple Technologies
To validate the new certification program, the AM CoE conducted pilot audits at companies like AM Craft, Oechsler, and KSB. These audits were designed to test the adaptability of the certification framework across various AM technologies, materials, and operating environments. The positive results demonstrate the program’s robustness and versatility in real-world applications.
Stephan Braun, Specialist Engineer Additive Manufacturing at KSB, expressed his satisfaction with the process, calling the audit “truly positive and valuable.” Andreas Knoechel, Head of Program Management at Oechsler, also shared his appreciation. He noted that the audit provided valuable insights on how their practices align with industry expectations.
The feedback from these audits emphasizes the collaborative nature of the certification process, which not only identifies areas for improvement but also fosters a deeper understanding of the evolving industry landscape.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
ASTM’s introduction of the Additive Manufacturing quality certification marks a significant advancement for the AM industry. As Additive Manufacturing continues to grow and penetrate sectors like aerospace, automotive, and medical, ensuring quality and regulatory compliance is crucial for widespread adoption. This certification provides manufacturers with a solid framework to build upon. It helps them meet the rigorous demands of OEMs while enhancing process control and reducing unnecessary audits.
By incorporating input from major global players in the AM space, ASTM’s program positions itself as a key tool for manufacturers seeking to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Moreover, the ability to standardize practices will boost confidence among both suppliers and customers, speeding up the time-to-market for AM technologies.
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