ASTM E3353-22 - Standard Guide for In-Process Monitoring Using Optical and Thermal Methods for Laser Powder Bed Fusion

1.1 This guide provides information on emerging in-process monitoring sensors, sensor configurations, sensor data analysis, and sensor data uses for the laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing process.

1.2 The sensors covered produce data related to and affected by feedstock, processing parameters, build atmosphere, microstructure, part geometry, part complexity, surface finish, and the printing equipment being used.

1.3 The parts monitored by the sensors covered in this guide are used in aerospace applications; therefore, their final inspection requirements for discontinuities are different and more stringent than for materials and components used in non-aerospace applications.

1.4 The metal materials under consideration include, but are not limited to, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, nickel-based alloys, cobalt-chromium alloys, and stainless steels.

1.5 This guide discusses sensor observation of parts while they are being fabricated. Sensor data analysis may take place concurrently or after the manufacturing process has concluded.

1.6 The sensors discussed in this guide may be used by cognizant engineering organizations to detect both surface and volumetric flaws.

1.7 The sensors discussed in this guide may be used by cognizant engineering organizations to detect process stability or drift, or both.

1.8 The sensors discussed in this guide are primarily configured in staring, co-axial, or mounted configurations.

1.9 This guide does not recommend a specific course of action, sensor type, or configuration for application of in-process monitoring to additively manufactured (AM) parts. It is intended to increase the awareness of emerging in-process sensors, sensor configurations, data analysis, and data usage.

1.10 Recommendations about the control of input materials, process equipment calibration, manufacturing processes, and post-processing are beyond the scope of this guide and are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F42 on Additive Manufacturing Technologies. Standards under the jurisdiction of ASTM F42 or equivalent are followed whenever possible to ensure reproducible parts suitable for NDT are made.

1.11 Recommendations about the inspection requirements and management of fracture critical AM parts are beyond the scope of this guide. Recommendations on fatigue, fracture mechanics, and fracture control are found in appropriate end user requirements documents, and in standards under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E08 on Fatigue and Fracture.

1.12 This guide does not specify accept-reject criteria used in procurement or as a means for approval of AM parts for service. Any accept-reject criteria are given solely for purposes of illustration and comparison.

1.13 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.14 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.15 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.