Additive manufacturing (sometimes known as 3-D printing) is a new and innovative way to do prototyping and even manufacture parts, tools and products. In tandem with the development of this new technology, the need for standardization has resulted with the development of a new ISO 17296 series, Additive manufacturing – General principles. It will eventually be a 4 document set, with ISO 17296-3 and ISO 17296-4 having just been released.
Because this is a new technology, early adopters are finding challenges regarding communication — for terminology, relevant test methods, and data exchange. This can result in difficulties, including assessing the quality of the final products. These are the issues the series is intended to address.
Let’s review the two documents one at a time:
ISO 17296-3, Additive manufacturing – General principles – Part 3: Main characteristics and corresponding test methods
This document is intended for use by machine manufacturers, feedstock suppliers, machine users, parts suppliers, and customers. You’ll use Part 3 to specify your main quality characteristics, determine the appropriate test procedures, and set up your test and supply agreements. It’s 22 pages in length, with primary sections on definition of and test methods for main characteristics and on parts and process testing. There’s a 74 item bibliography to complete the document.
ISO 17296-4, Additive manufacturing – General principles – Part 4: Overview of data processing
This part of the series deals with functional requirements for the data that supports additive manufacturing. You’ll be able to use it if you’re involved in manufacturing such equipment (including software), are involved in the development of CAD/CAE systems, develop reverse engineering systems, or need to compare the requested geometry with the actual end product.
Although the document is shorter than the Part 3 (only 14 pages), it provides the user with technical data required to understand the data formats used, how the data supports the additive process, and how to exchange that data successfully. You’ll also want to review both the ASTM F2792, “Standard Terminology for Additive Manufacturing Technologies,” and the ASTM F2915, “Standard Specification for Additive Manufacturing File Format (AMF).”
When the series is fully issued, there will be an additional 2 documents:
ISO 17296-1, Additive manufacturing — General principles — Part 1: Terminology
ISO 17296-2, Additive manufacturing — General principles — Part 2: Overview of process categories and feedstock
If these standards apply to your business, you’ll need copies. Head to Document Center’s webstore at www.document-center.com and order online. Or contact our staff by phone (650-591-7600), fax (650-591-7617) or email (info@document-center.com). The publications are available in paper format, for pdf download and as part of our multi-user access service, Standards Online. You’ll find many additional services that will help you maintain your standards collection as well! Make us your Standards Experts.
