Siemens Energy’s experts in Finspång, Sweden, have developed the first generation of the AM Cockpit platform that provides automated and reliable quality control of the 3D metal printing process. In turn, DNV has developed the Independent Quality Monitor (IQM) platform – a customer portal that continuously quality-assures digital solutions.

By combining these two solutions, DNV can launch a commercial solution for the AM manufacturing industry – ensuring that 3D printed parts can easily be compared to an ‘approved master print’. The combination also makes automated and remote process certification possible.

The AM Cockpit collects sensor data streams and powder bed images from the manufacturing process in PBF 3D printers. The AM Cockpit then generates a digital summary of each printed part – highlighting problematic areas of the print. In parallel, the IQM has been developed as part of the EU-project InterQ – aiming at zero-defect manufacturing. The solution monitors data quality continuously through newly-developed algorithms and compliance logic.

“Succeeding in AM industrialization relies on a successful digital transition. The combination of the AM Cockpit and the IQM is a significant step forward for additive manufacturing,” said Klas Bendrik, Chief digital and development officer at DNV.

By industrializing the combined solution, DNV aims to become the global energy sector’s preferred choice for digital risk management.

“The benefits of 3D-printing, when used properly, can include reduced material waste, quicker production, cost savings, and the ability to produce complex and customized parts,” said Stian Gurrik, senior engineer and AM specialist who has been central in working with DNV’s recommended practices on AM.

As a pioneer in AM, Siemens Energy has been a global front-runner in designing and 3D printing key gas turbine components that enable power plant owners to increase their plant’s efficiency and significantly reduce carbon emissions.

“Thanks to its design freedom, AM is the core technology that allows Siemens Energy to develop and modify gas turbines to run on green fuels, such as hydrogen,” said Hans Holmström, CEO of Siemens Energy in Sweden.

“With decades of experience in industrializing additive manufacturing, Siemens Energy is an excellent partner for DNV in advancing quality assurance of additively manufactured parts,” said Manish Kumar, Head of business development, strategy, and sales at Siemens Energy Additive Manufacturing Business.

The quality of a printing process can be visualized with the digitalized quality assurance method of the AM Cockpit and the IQM. As a result, the end user can be confident that the process meets the necessary quality standards.