Powder Bed Fusion

A titanium air mixer made through the additive manufacturing process.

A new ASTM International standard will aid in the continuing acceptance of additive manufacturing processes throughout a variety of industries. The new standard, F2924, Specification for Additive Manufacturing Titanium-6 Aluminum-4 Vanadium with Powder Bed Fusion, was developed by Subcommittee F42.05 on Materials and Processes.

F42.05 is part of ASTM International Committee F42 on Additive Manufacturing Technologies.

According to Shane Collins, managing director, Directed Manufacturing, and chairman of F42.05, powder bed fusion describes a 3D printing process in which electron beams and laser beams grow engineered parts from polymer and metal powders in a powder bed.

"Currently, powder bed fusion processes can economically replace traditional manufacturing techniques in which an engineered component is highly complex or designed to be built via additive manufacturing," says Collins. "F2924 provides the framework whereby the powder bed fusion materials and processes can be controlled and monitored in such a way that satisfies the requirements of safety and performance critical components."

According to Collins, F2924 will be initially used by engineers designing high value objects such as human implants and aerospace components. However, as speed increases and the price of additive manufactured components decreases, the standard will be used by a wider audience for a variety of titanium parts for automotive applications and consumer goods.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Sales (phone: 877-909-ASTM; sales@astm.org).

CONTACT Technical Information: Shane Collins, Directed Manufacturing • Pflugerville, Texas • Phone: 512-990-9100 | ASTM Staff: Pat Picariello • Phone: 610-832-9720

A titanium air mixer made through the additive manufacturing process.

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Issue Month
May/June
Issue Year
2012