With Additive Manufacturing (AM) – scaling from prototyping to production of critical components – the need to verify the competency of machine operators is increasing. In response to the demand for a standardized approach to qualifying operators, ASTM International has developed a certification program that applies to personnel operating Powder Bed Fusion - Laser Beam (PBF-LB) systems. As the leading metal AM technology provider with the largest machine install base, EOS has partnered with ASTM to launch this new program with initial application on the EOS M 290 platform. Upon successful completion of this program, operators will be certified in compliance with the safety and quality operating requirements in ‘ISO/ASTM 52942:2020 Additive manufacturing — Qualification principles — Qualifying machine operators of laser metal powder bed fusion machines and equipment used in aerospace applications’. Assessment Details ASTM PBF-LB Machine Operator Certification is based on the ISO/ASTM 52942:2020 standard: Content of Theoretical Assessment: Safety Equipment and processes Material handling Content of Practical Assessment Setup of Powder Bed Fusion - Laser Beam (PBF-LB) systems Monitoring and managing of the manufacturing process Preparing PBF-LB parts for post-processing Operator maintenance of PBF-LB systems Advanced skills, if performed by the machine operator For more information on the assessment topics, refer to the ISO/ASTM 52942-2020 standard.
