TS EN ISO/ASTM 52926-4

TS EN ISO/ASTM 52926-4 addresses qualification principles for operators involved in the additive manufacturing of metal parts, specifically for DED-LB/M. Direct energy deposition with a laser beam is a metal AM process in which material is added and melted under controlled energy input, so operator qualification is not just about starting a machine; it also depends on understanding how the process behaves during build execution.

What operator qualification is meant to cover

This document specifies criteria for the theoretical and practical assessment of personnel operating DED-LB/M machines. It also includes the activities and procedures expected to be carried out by the operator. In general technical terms, that means familiarity with process parameters, material handling, machine setup, build monitoring and the recognition of deviations that can affect part quality. In metal additive manufacturing, small changes in setup or process conditions can influence geometry, surface condition and overall build consistency, which is why operator competence is a key part of process reliability.

A framework for general industrial applications

The standard is intended as an outline for qualifying AM machine operators in general industrial applications. It is framed around competence and responsibility rather than a single machine design or factory workflow. For users, that makes the document relevant wherever DED-LB/M is used to produce metal components and operator performance needs to be assessed in a structured way. The emphasis is on combining theoretical understanding with practical capability so the operator can support repeatable, controlled production.

• Focused on operator qualification for DED-LB/M.
• Includes criteria for theoretical and practical assessment.
• Covers the activities and procedures the operator is expected to perform.
• Intended for general industrial AM applications.