Knowledge transfer and standards needs in additive manufacturing

Abstract

Although AM technologies have high potential in terms of productivity and competitiveness for companies, their diffusion is still relatively limited among manufacturers and end users. In the context of two European Projects (KTRM and SASAM), this chapter presents an approach of how to transfer knowledge to people working in the manufacturing industry or design. This transfer of knowledge is not only based on technology itself but also on any other relevant issues such as business models or standardization in the field of AM. A survey and road map are presented to show the needs of the AM community in terms of training and standards. Also, the chapter highlights that the new standards and technical reports, from ISO-ASTM, can provide valuable support for knowledge transfer, being the link between training and the implementation of standards a key factor to spread AM technologies. The structure, proposed by ISO TC261 and ASTM F42, for development of future standards, is shown as the most suitable to follow in terms of training as well.