Overview
SIST-TP CEN ISO/ASTM TR 52913-1:2026 provides comprehensive guidelines for the selection of measurement methods to characterize the flow properties of powders used in additive manufacturing (AM). Accurate characterization of powder flowability is pivotal for ensuring reliability and part quality in powder feedstock-based AM processes, covering both virgin and reused powders. This technical report serves as a reference for manufacturers, suppliers, test equipment developers, and end-users in the additive manufacturing industry, ensuring consistency and accuracy in powder handling, measurement, and reporting.
Key Topics
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Powder Flowability
The standard defines powder flowability as the ability of a bulk material to flow, influenced by factors such as powder size distribution, shape, cohesion, rheology, and environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, consolidation).
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Critical Variables Affecting Flow
- Particle size and shape
- Moisture and gas content
- Electrostatic and electromagnetic interactions
- Storage and handling conditions
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Measurement Methods
The document outlines guidance for selecting appropriate measurement techniques, linking test conditions to real process situations:
- Funnel flowmeter
- Flow through orifice
- Shear cell test
- Avalanche and rotating drum
- Angle of repose
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Application Scope
Guidelines apply not only to new (virgin) powders but also to powders that have undergone multiple build and recycle cycles, ensuring consistent monitoring of material performance over time.
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Reporting Requirements
Recommendations include specifying sample identification, measurement procedure, environment, apparatus used, test parameters, and any deviations or anomalies observed during testing.
Applications
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Test Equipment Manufacturers:
Use the guidelines to develop and calibrate instruments tailored for AM powder characterization under various conditions.
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Material Suppliers and Additive Machine Manufacturers:
Ensure that the supplied powders or machines align with industry-standard characterization practices, supporting robust quality assurance and traceability across the AM supply chain.
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Additive Manufacturing Machine Users:
Monitor powder properties throughout storage, handling, and re-use cycles, enabling the detection of drift in powder behavior and ensuring process reliability and consistent part quality.
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Laboratory Reporting:
Follow standardized protocols for test reports, supporting reproducibility and regulatory compliance across international operations.
Related Standards
For comprehensive powder characterization and testing, consider referencing these associated standards:
- ISO/ASTM 52900 - Additive manufacturing - General principles - Fundamentals and vocabulary
- ISO/ASTM 52907 - Additive manufacturing - Feedstock materials - Methods to characterize metal powders
- ISO 14488 - Particulate materials - Sampling and sample splitting for the determination of particulate properties
- ASTM B215, ASTM F3049 - Sampling and characterization methods for metallic powders
- ISO 4324, ASTM B212, ASTM B213 - Determination of apparent density, flow rate, and related physical parameters
Summary
SIST-TP CEN ISO/ASTM TR 52913-1:2026 establishes a critical foundation for the selection, application, and reporting of powder flow characterization methods in additive manufacturing. By standardizing the evaluation of powder properties under multiple conditions, this guideline enhances quality control, process reliability, and interoperability across the AM supply chain, making it a valuable resource for all stakeholders in the powder-based additive manufacturing industry.