Overview
EN ISO/ASTM 52942:2020 - "Additive manufacturing - Qualification principles - Qualifying machine operators of laser metal powder bed fusion machines and equipment used in aerospace applications" - defines requirements for operator qualification for laser metal powder bed fusion (L-PBF) systems when such testing is required by contract or aerospace application standards. Published by CEN/ISO/ASTM, the standard focuses on ensuring operators are competent to run L-PBF equipment for aerospace production through structured assessment and recordkeeping.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and applicability: Applies to qualification testing of L-PBF machine operators used in aerospace when mandated by contract or application standards.
- Qualification components:
- Theoretical test - assesses knowledge relevant to L-PBF processes (content guidance in Annex A).
- Practical test - hands-on assessment following an Additive Manufacturing Procedure Specification (APS); Annex B and D provide content and APS example.
- Evidence of visual acuity - vision requirements consistent with NDT/aviation guidance.
- Essential variables and ranges:
- Qualification is defined by essential variables; working outside a defined range requires requalification.
- Key variables include powder material groups (Material groups A–F: steels, titanium, aluminium, nickel/cobalt, etc.) and machine model.
- Qualification governance:
- A designated coordinator is required to manage qualification, requalification and disqualification.
- The standard provides requirements for qualification test certificates, validity periods, requalification and supplementary testing.
- Supporting documentation: Includes example operator certificate (Annex C) and guidance on Preliminary APS (PAPS).
Applications and users
EN ISO/ASTM 52942:2020 is aimed at organizations and roles involved in aerospace additive manufacturing:
- Aerospace OEMs and suppliers implementing L-PBF production and supplier contracts
- Quality, training and operations managers establishing operator training and assessment programs
- Additive manufacturing facilities seeking standardized operator competence evidence
- Contracting authorities requiring compliant operator qualification as part of procurement
- Examiners and examining bodies conducting assessments and issuing certificates
Practical benefits include reducing process variation, improving safety and part quality, demonstrating compliance with aerospace procurement requirements, and standardizing operator capability across suppliers.
Related standards
Normative references include:
- ISO/ASTM 52900 (fundamentals and vocabulary)
- ISO/ASTM 52921 (terminology, coordinate systems, test methodologies)
- ISO 18490 (vision acuity evaluation)
- EN 4179 and NAS 410 (personnel qualification guidance for aerospace NDT)
Keywords: EN ISO/ASTM 52942:2020, additive manufacturing, laser metal powder bed fusion, operator qualification, aerospace, APS, L-PBF.