ASTM F3184 – Stainless Steel for Additive Manufacturing

ASTM F3184, “Standard Specification for Additive Manufacturing Stainless Steel Alloy (UNS S31603) with Powder Bed Fusion,” has just been released.  This new standard provides information on the additive manufacturing of UNS S31603 stainless steel components.  These components are made using laser and electron beam-based full melt powder bed fusion.

Additive manufacturing is gaining acceptance quickly.  I was at the San Jose Art Museum last month and was impressed by ceramic and glass sculptures made using this process.  However, in order to achieve comparable components using the new technology, careful use of materials and processes are essential.

Components addressed in this standard will have mechanical properties similar to machined forgings and wrought products.  They may be post processing using machining, grinding, electrical discharge maching, polishing and so on in order to get the correct finish and dimensions.  But please note:  items intended for surgical implants are not covered.

Who should be using ASTM F3184?  It is intended for both purchasers and for producers of these products.  The specification will be the basis for procuring components meeting minimum acceptance requirements.  So issues like condition, manufacturing plan, ordering information, chemical requirements and the like are covered by the standard.  Supplementary requirements allow for additional, more stringent, items that can be added to a purchase order.

To get a copy of this and other ASTM standards, use the Document Center Inc. webstore at www.document-center.com.  As an authorized distributor of ASTM standards, Document Center Inc. provides paper format, pdf download and networked solutions for you.  Here is a link to the order page for the ASTM F3184 for your convenience.

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