Fundamentals of Metal Powder Bed Fusion -- eLearning Course
About this Course
This introductory course provides a foundational overview of Powder Bed Fusion (PBF), one of the seven additive manufacturing (AM) processes defined by ISO/ASTM 52900. The course focuses on metal powders as the feedstock for PBF. Essential terminology, process classifications, and the complete PBF workflow for metals—from CAD design and machine setup to material deposition, inspection, and post-processing are discussed.
Participants will gain an understanding of key system components, including heat sources, material delivery, and inert gas requirements that influence build quality and performance. The course also emphasizes critical safety practices, material handling protocols, quality assurance measures, and production requirements including auxiliary equipment.
The course takes approximately 2 hours to complete and includes instructional video content and interactive knowledge checks. This course does not include a written assessment.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe Powder Bed Fusion PBF for metals as an additive manufacturing technology
- Explain the process steps materials and systems found in Powder Bed Fusion
- Summarize the complete PBF for metal workflow from CAD design and machine setup to deposition inspection and post-processing
- Identify key PBF safety considerations including common hazards PPE ventilation emergency procedures and risk assessments
- Recognize PBF applications across industries including use cases in aerospace medical and tooling
Who Should Attend
This training course will be most valuable to those who are new to additive manufacturing (AM), or new to Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) for metals, at any level - operator, engineer, or management. Other interested roles are those working alongside AM personnel such as procurement, sourcing, logistics, accounting, facility management, and safety.
Certificate of Completion
Certificate: A certificate of completion is available upon successful completion of the course and an 80% or higher score on the exam.
About the Subject Matter Expert
Paul Bates is an Additive Manufacturing Lead Project Engineer for ASTM International. In this role he brings his technical expertise to drive the projects in Additive Manufacturing training safety and certification. He is an industry-recognized AM veteran. Before joining ASTM Bates was the Manager for Facility Safety and Workforce Development in Additive Manufacturing at UL and served 20 plus years at Reebok where he guided the global athletic footwear leaders Additive Manufacturing Lab and 3D CAD Team as the Director of Advanced Process Engineering.
A 2012 recipient of the Additive Manufacturing User Group AMUG DINO Award Bates is fluent in numerous AM processes including PBFLBM PBFLBP MEX and MJT. He is a Past President of the Additive Manufacturing Users Group AMUG. He has a BS degree in Design Technology from Bowling Green State University Bowling Green OH and a Masters Degree in Technology Management from the University of Phoenix.
Access
1 year online subscription for a Single-User Only via username/password. Requires internet access.
For pricing for Multi-User access or for more information, please contact sales here or call 1-877-909-ASTM.
Stock #
TRAIN-AMCOEFUNDPBF-PASS