ASTM International expands EOS machine operator certification
The PBF-LB Machine Operator Certification program now includes the EOS M 400 and EOS M 400-4 systems
The ASTM International Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM CoE), and Additive Minds, the applied engineering and training group of EOS, have expanded the PBF-LB Machine Operator Certification program to include the EOS M 400/EOS M 400-4 metal additive manufacturing platform.
Originally launched in April 2022, and piloted with the EOS M 290 system, the PBF-LB Machine Operator Certification program provides a benchmark for assessing reliable and competent operations of metal PBF-LB machines, based on the joint ISO/ASTM standard (ISO/ASTM 52942:2020). The certification is now offered to both EOS M 290 and EOS M 400/EOS M 400-4 operators, offering a ‘stamp of approval’, along with theoretical and practical assessments to evaluate machine-specific competency.
The ASTM certification evaluates Additive Manufacturing Procedure Specification (APS); standard operating procedures; machine management and build process monitoring; post-processing optimization; operator maintenance of systems; and powder material family specializations (up to (2) material groups based on users’ selection).
“ASTM continues its effort to support the industrialization of additive manufacturing by offering programs such as certification. This certification allows operators of sophisticated AM machines to demonstrate expertise and stand out in the industry. The certification will emphasize your organization’s commitment to quality and consistency using PBF-LB processes, and open doors to new production opportunities in the world of additive manufacturing,” said Paul Bates, Senior Training and Certification Leader at ASTM International.
“We are pleased to see the Additive Manufacturing Operator Certification Program continuing to blossom. Coupled with the recent launch of our in-person Additive Minds Academy training center, we are taking substantial steps towards closing the industrial 3D printing educational gap and building a stronger, more robust AM workforce for the future of our industry,” said Fabian Alefeld, Senior Manager of the Additive Minds Academy and Consulting at EOS.
