In the production context, a lack of standards and the human factor also play a role. This is because trained experts are crucial for manufacturing quality in an industrial context. DIN SPEC 17071, which is currently being developed, will for the first time define uniform requirements for successful implementation in practice.

The technologically and operationally necessary quality control based on a guideline enables even small and medium-sized companies to build up production maturity for higher quantities. This minimizes risks and makes investments in new production lines transparent and calculable. It also makes new business models possible, such as decentralized production facilities with shorter delivery times.

The guide is also essential for manufacturers who want to set up risk-minimized production for regulated industries. More far-reaching requirements must be met for aviation, medicine, mobility or pressure equipment. The focus here is on material testing, transparent and reproducibly documented machine acceptance and the entire management of the production process. However, the qualification of employees such as operators, engineers, QM managers, sales staff and project managers is just as important.

The entire process chain at a glance

In principle, the operation of the system, the source material and its management as well as the manufacturing process itself must be qualified. In addition to the maintenance and calibration of the test equipment, the documentation should also include the history of the materials and components as well as CAD processes and reproducible data handling. Process descriptions in the form of work instructions and run cards are indispensable - including the associated quality limits (minimum requirements). Last but not least, continuous monitoring of the production process with random samples and material analyses is a must.

In addition to TÜV Süd Product Service and the German Institute for Standardization (DIN NA 145 Additive Manufacturing), committees such as the Joint Committee of ISO (ISO/TC 261) and ASTM are working with various market participants on further standards. One example of this is PWI 52920 for the conformity assessment of additive manufacturing facilities within an industrial manufacturing environment. TÜV Süd supports companies and users with services, certifications, training and digital services along the entire additive manufacturing chain.

Gregor Reischle, Head of Additive Manufacturing, TÜV Süd Product Service