ASTM F3488 : 22

1.1 This document’s purpose is to guide designers who are considering the use of metal, polymer or ceramic Additive Manufacturing (AM) for their products. Section 4 outlines the technical and commercial opportunities of AM, supported with examples; it focuses on applications rather than specific processes or technologies. Section 5 considers the available AM process categories and materials, with comparisons of their capabilities. Section 6 offers advice from a designer’s perspective on evaluating AM as a manufacturing solution. It also identifies other considerations from the AM process chain that would affect a decision on whether to adopt AM.

1.2 This guide aids in the initial decision as to whether AM is a suitable process for a given product. It is intended as a complement to the more specific product design information contained in ISO/ASTM 52910.

1.3 The following AM processes are not considered in this guide:

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.