Overview
ISO/ASTM 52951:2026 specifies methods for developing and managing data packages for parts produced using additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. By defining information requirements across the AM workflow - from design to acceptance - this international standard ensures consistent communication and traceability among all stakeholders, including designers, manufacturers, and acceptance authorities. The document supports the creation of customizable and modular data packages, enabling organizations to achieve reliable and traceable manufacturing outcomes, especially when fabricating critical components using processes like powder bed fusion-laser based/metal (PBF-LB/M).
Key Topics
- Additive Manufacturing Data Packages: Clarifies how to create, configure, and manage the information sets tracking every stage of AM part production. Data packages are designed to enable clear design-to-acceptance communication.
- Digital Thread and Traceability: Establishes a digital thread to connect and document every phase of the AM workflow, supporting robust provenance and quality assurance.
- Workflow Stages: Outlines critical points in the AM workflow, including design, pre-process and post-process, build, inspection, and final delivery, with relevant data requirements at each stage.
- Modular and Configurable Requirements: Emphasizes flexible configuration through distinct modules, allowing organizations to address different levels of criticality, product maturity, and scenario-specific controls.
- Configuration Management: Advocates best practices in configuration identification, control, and traceability, essential for managing digital twins of AM parts and minimizing risk due to design or process changes.
- Part and Performer Capability Mapping: Guides organizations in setting appropriate levels of control based on the criticality of the part and the capabilities of the performers (e.g., designers, technicians).
- Security and Quality: Advises on security measures, data traceability, and quality control planning to ensure data integrity and mitigate risks such as part sabotage or counterfeiting.
Applications
ISO/ASTM 52951:2026 is intended for organizations using additive manufacturing for producing parts where data integrity, provenance, and communication are paramount. Practical applications include:
- Aerospace and Defense: Where traceability, stringent quality controls, and secure data flows are required.
- Medical Devices: Supporting the documentation and validation necessary for regulatory compliance and patient safety in AM-based healthcare products.
- Industrial Manufacturing: Ensuring that production information, from raw materials to final inspections, is consistently documented and communicated.
- Custom and Prototype Parts: Facilitating the use of configurable data packages for unique, developmental, or low-volume product scenarios.
- Supply Chain and Procurement: Enhancing clarity and trust in outsourced production by defining information requirements for part acquisition scenarios.
The standard enables organizations to build digital twins for AM parts, supporting digital thread practices that offer real-time manufacturing insight and foster high confidence in delivered products.
Related Standards
- ISO/ASTM 52900: General principles, fundamentals, and vocabulary of additive manufacturing, referenced for terminology and foundational concepts.
- ISO/ASTM 52920 series: Existing and future standards focused on quality and process management for additive manufacturing.
- ISO 23247 series: Standards on digital twin frameworks, offering broader context for data management and digital part representations.
- Relevant Data Security and Configuration Management Standards: As referenced in the standard, for integration with broader enterprise data and product lifecycle management systems.
ISO/ASTM 52951:2026 is a cornerstone for organizations seeking to formalize and secure the data workflow intrinsic to advanced additive manufacturing, supporting consistency, quality, and innovation across sectors.