ASTM E3353

ASTM E3353 is a technical guide for in-process monitoring using optical and thermal methods in laser powder bed fusion. It provides a structured reference for understanding how monitoring data may be used during additive manufacturing to observe process behavior as parts are built. By focusing on optical and thermal approaches, this standard helps users align quality control efforts, improve process awareness, and support more consistent evaluation of build conditions in a fast-changing manufacturing environment.

Overview of ASTM E3353

The standard titled Standard Guide for In-Process Monitoring Using Optical and Thermal Methods for Laser Powder Bed Fusion is intended to guide the use of monitoring techniques during laser powder bed fusion operations. ASTM E3353 centers on methods that can help track conditions as the process occurs, rather than only after the build is complete. This makes it a useful technical document for organizations seeking clearer process visibility, better interpretation of monitoring signals, and a more consistent basis for comparing build performance.

Common use cases of ASTM E3353

ASTM E3353 is commonly used in laser powder bed fusion workflows where optical or thermal monitoring systems are part of production, development, or qualification activities. It may support teams evaluating build consistency, reviewing layer-by-layer behavior, or documenting process monitoring practices for additive manufacturing programs. The guide is especially relevant when a company needs a common framework for capturing and interpreting in-process data from the machine environment and linking that information to quality and performance objectives.

Benefits of using ASTM E3353

Using ASTM E3353 can help organizations improve consistency in how in-process monitoring is planned, recorded, and assessed. For procurement and compliance teams, it offers a clearer basis for specifying monitoring expectations tied to laser powder bed fusion. For engineering and quality control, it may support better process review, earlier detection of unusual behavior, and more disciplined product evaluation. As a result, the standard can contribute to lower risk, stronger documentation, and more repeatable manufacturing practices.

• Optical monitoring guidance
• Thermal monitoring guidance
• Laser powder bed fusion focus
• In-process data interpretation
• Quality and consistency support