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ASTM International publishes sensor guide for LPBF in-process monitoring

US standards organisation ASTM International has published a new guide for in-process monitoring for laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF) in aerospace manufacturing using optical and thermal methods.

The guide is intended to increase the awareness of emerging in-process monitoring sensors, their configurations, data analysis and data usage in LPBF. 

It covers the observation of parts both while they are being fabricated as well as after manufacturing has concluded.

The sensors covered in the guide include those for monitoring feedstock, processing parameters, build atmosphere, microstructure, part geometry, part complexity, surface finish, and the printing equipment being used. Metal materials discussed include aluminium alloys, titanium alloys, nickel-based alloys, cobalt-chromium alloys, and stainless steels.

It’s worth noting that due to the guide being solely intended for increasing the awareness of emerging sensor technologies, it does not recommend a specific course of action, sensor type, or configuration of the sensors. Recommendations about inspection requirements and management of fracture critical AM parts are also beyond the scope of this guide, as are accept-reject criteria as a means for approval of AM parts for service.

More information on the guide can be found here.

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