Additive manufacturing (AM, aka 3D printing) is increasingly accepted as an end-product manufacturing method, rather than just for prototyping. However, ensuring the final quality of parts for use in critical applications such as medical, and particularly aerospace, can still be a labor- and cost-intensive process. AM machine makers have most recently been concentrating on improving the actual printing technology of their equipment, and monitoring build progress in situ, so that printed parts not only perform as expected, but also can meet the various standards set by different industries.

Such proof generally comes in two forms: certification of the final product and qualification of the equipment, software, and materials used to produce that product. Two industry experts—Laura Ely from the Barnes Group and Zack Murphree, from AM equipment and software provider VELO^3D—define and discuss these issues, and other important related ones, in the Q&A below.

What’s changed in additive manufacturing that makes certification more important these days?

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