Abstract

This document specifies a standardized level framework for the implementation of additive manufacturing to support temporary self-sufficient systems. It defines principles and criteria, from a resource perspective (personnel, training, infrastructure, materials, etc.) and provides guidance for categorizing additive manufacturing processes into different levels to support self-sufficient systems (ships, small islands, oil rigs, etc.). Support can be established through onboard and onshore operation. This covers the complete part cycle from design (if applicable), manufacturing, to a finished part that meets requirements.
It aims to provide clarity and consistency for non-AM experts dealing with logistical support of self-sufficient systems.
This document is applicable to industries, military institutions, research institutions, and regulatory bodies involved in additive manufacturing, facilitating interoperability and harmonization of practices across different stakeholders.

Status
Not Published
Publication Date
10-Jan-2027
Current Stage
5060 - Closure of Vote - Formal Approval
Start Date
08-Oct-2026
Due Date
03-Feb-2027
Completion Date
08-Oct-2026

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FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 is a CEN draft in the ISO/ASTM additive manufacturing series that sets a qualification framework for categorizing resources and process capabilities. It defines a four-level system for using additive manufacturing in temporarily self-sufficient systems such as ships, oil rigs, field teams, and remote research stations. The standard is meant for organizations that need a common way to decide what AM capability fits the available people, equipment, infrastructure, and operational need.

What does FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 specify?

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 specifies principles and criteria for a standardized level framework for AM support in temporarily self-sufficient systems. It covers the part cycle from design, where applicable, through manufacturing to a finished part that meets requirements.

The document is organized into:

  • Clause 1 Scope
  • Clause 2 Normative references
  • Clause 3 Terms and definitions
  • Clause 4 Principle
  • Clause 5 Framework implementation requirements
  • Annex A and Annex B, both informative
AnnexWhat it covers
Annex AIntegrating Additive Manufacturing into Organizational Structures
Annex BPractical examples of the AM level framework application in a Navy context

What are the key requirements of FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966?

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 defines a cumulative four-level model for AM in temporarily self-sufficient systems. Each higher level shall be able to replicate or encompass the capabilities and processes of the level below it, which matters when an organization upgrades part of its AM capability without changing the overall classification.

Four levels and what they mean in practice

  • Level 1 additive manufacturing - Basic prototyping: supports low-complexity, non-critical parts with basic training and minimal equipment. In practice, this is the entry point for simple repairs, proofs of concept, and desktop-scale AM.
  • Level 2 additive manufacturing - Intermediate production: adds industrial-grade systems, functional prototypes, and moderately complex parts. This level is for organizations that need more capable on-board or nearby support.
  • Level 3 additive manufacturing - Advanced AM capabilities: covers highly specialized facilities, complex functional parts, and special infrastructure. In practice, this is suited to shore-based or other better-resourced support locations.
  • Level 4 additive manufacturing - Certified manufacturing: targets critical components, strict standards, and certified production environments. This is the level for parts that must meet formal compliance and certification needs.

What Table 1 requires organizations to manage

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 uses Table 1 to describe the resource profile for each level. The table ties the level decision to resources such as personnel, training, infrastructure, materials, utilities, quality assurance, and data handling, so the user can check whether a site can realistically support the intended AM activity.

Quality assurance becomes more demanding as levels rise. The standard calls for basic inspection at Level 1, enhanced quality assurance at Levels 2 and 3, and strictly enforced control and validation of inspection and test methods at Level 4.

Qualification also scales with the level. Personnel need basic AM training at Level 1, intermediate training and certification at Level 2, advanced training at Level 3, and expert-level training and certification at Level 4. The table also links the role of AM coordinators to suitable qualification, including use of ISO/ASTM 52935 where applicable.

Data integrity is treated as a core requirement across the framework. The standard calls for secure transfer, segmentation of sensitive information, and auditability, and it adds centralized security management, encryption, VPN, and role-based access control at higher levels.

Materials and safety are also level-dependent. Lower levels focus on basic materials and compatibility testing, while Level 3 and Level 4 move toward advanced or certified materials, stronger testing, and stricter safety control based on the safety data sheet, including PPE where needed.

What terms does FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 define?

  • Temporarily self-sufficient systems - systems that can operate independently for defined periods and meet their own needs without external support.
  • Additive manufacturing level framework - the structured approach used to guide AM implementation and operation within an organization.
  • AM - additive manufacturing, the process family the document organizes into levels.
  • QA - quality assurance, the set of controls used to verify reliability and consistency of produced components.
  • PPE - Personnel Protection Equipment, used in the safety requirements for the higher levels.
  • AM coordinator - the role responsible for coordinating AM duties, with qualification expected to match the assigned level and tasks.

Who uses FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966?

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 is intended for industries, military institutions, research institutions, and regulatory bodies involved in additive manufacturing. It is especially useful for people who manage logistics, readiness, maintenance, procurement, quality, and technology deployment in places where external support is limited.

In practice, it helps:

  • engineers and AM planners decide which level fits a mission or site
  • quality managers define the qualification and control measures for each level
  • buyers and logisticians compare equipment, staffing, and facility needs
  • regulators and auditors check whether an AM setup is aligned with the selected level

Which standards are used with FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966?

  • ISO/ASTM 52900 - provides the general principles and vocabulary used throughout the document.
  • ISO/ASTM 52935 - supports qualification of coordination personnel.
  • ISO/ASTM 52920 - covers requirements for industrial additive manufacturing processes and production sites.
  • ISO/ASTM TS 52930 - covers installation, operation and performance qualification of PBF-LB equipment.
  • ISO/ASTM 52901 - covers requirements for purchased AM parts.
  • ISO/ASTM 52904 - covers metal powder bed fusion process characteristics and performance for critical applications.
  • ISO/ASTM 52942 - covers qualification of machine operators for laser metal powder bed fusion machines and equipment used in aerospace applications.
  • ISO 52926 (all parts) - provides additional qualification principles for metal additive manufacturing.

What does the FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 document contain?

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 contains the principle for a four-level AM framework and a detailed implementation table in Clause 5. That table organizes requirements by level for resources, application focus, machine capability, facilities, universality, quality assurance, qualification, record keeping, data integrity, materials, materials selection guidance, and safety.

Annex A gives a six-phase method for integrating AM into organizational structures and describes the funnel-sieve method for assigning AM demand to the appropriate level. Annex B gives Navy examples showing how the four levels map to vessels, shore facilities, equipment, and training.

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Effective Date
12-Feb-2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 is a draft published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Additive manufacturing - Qualification Principles - Framework for categorizing resources and process capabilities (ISO/ASTM FDIS 52966:2026)". This standard covers: This document specifies a standardized level framework for the implementation of additive manufacturing to support temporary self-sufficient systems. It defines principles and criteria, from a resource perspective (personnel, training, infrastructure, materials, etc.) and provides guidance for categorizing additive manufacturing processes into different levels to support self-sufficient systems (ships, small islands, oil rigs, etc.). Support can be established through onboard and onshore operation. This covers the complete part cycle from design (if applicable), manufacturing, to a finished part that meets requirements. It aims to provide clarity and consistency for non-AM experts dealing with logistical support of self-sufficient systems. This document is applicable to industries, military institutions, research institutions, and regulatory bodies involved in additive manufacturing, facilitating interoperability and harmonization of practices across different stakeholders.

This document specifies a standardized level framework for the implementation of additive manufacturing to support temporary self-sufficient systems. It defines principles and criteria, from a resource perspective (personnel, training, infrastructure, materials, etc.) and provides guidance for categorizing additive manufacturing processes into different levels to support self-sufficient systems (ships, small islands, oil rigs, etc.). Support can be established through onboard and onshore operation. This covers the complete part cycle from design (if applicable), manufacturing, to a finished part that meets requirements. It aims to provide clarity and consistency for non-AM experts dealing with logistical support of self-sufficient systems. This document is applicable to industries, military institutions, research institutions, and regulatory bodies involved in additive manufacturing, facilitating interoperability and harmonization of practices across different stakeholders.

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 25.030 - Additive manufacturing. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ISO/ASTM 52966. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

FprEN ISO/ASTM 52966 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
01-november-2025
Dodajalna izdelava - Kvalifikacija - Okvir za karakterizacijo virov in zmogljivosti
procesov (ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025)
Additive manufacturing - Qualification Principles - Framework for categorizing resources
and process capabilities (ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025)
Additive Fertigung - Qualifikationsprinzipien - Rahmen für die Kategorisierung von
Ressourcen und Prozessfähigkeiten (ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025)
Fabrication additive - Principes de qualification - Cadre pour la catégorisation des
ressources et capacités de traitement (ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN ISO 52966
ICS:
25.030 3D-tiskanje Additive manufacturing
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
DRAFT
International
Standard
ISO/ASTM DIS
ISO/TC 261
Additive manufacturing —
Secretariat: DIN
Qualification Principles —
Voting begins on:
Framework for categorizing
2025-08-25
resources and process capabilities
Voting terminates on:
ICS: 25.030
2025-11-17
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
FOR COMMENTS AND APPROVAL. IT
IS THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
AND MAY NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD UNTIL
PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
This document is circulated as received from the committee secretariat.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION.
Reference number
© ISO/ASTM International 2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
DRAFT
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
International
Standard
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966
ISO/TC 261
Additive manufacturing —
Secretariat: DIN
Qualification Principles —
Voting begins on:
Framework for categorizing
resources and process capabilities
Voting terminates on:
ICS: 25.030
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
FOR COMMENTS AND APPROVAL. IT
IS THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
AND MAY NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD UNTIL
PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
This document is circulated as received from the committee secretariat.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
© ISO/ASTM International 2025
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester. In the United States, such requests should be sent to ASTM International.
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
ISO copyright office ASTM International
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, USA
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11 Phone: +610 832 9634
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
Fax: +610 832 9635
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION.
Email: copyright@iso.org Email: khooper@astm.org
Website: www.iso.org Website: www.astm.org
Published in Switzerland Reference number
© ISO/ASTM International 2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
ii
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 2
5 Framework implementation requirements . 2
Annex A (informative) Integrating Additive Manufacturing into Organizational Structures . 7
Annex B (informative) Practical Examples of the AM Level Framework Application in a Navy
context . 9
Bibliography .11

© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
iii
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee
has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations,
governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely
with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the different types
of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any patent
rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or on the ISO list of
patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity assessment,
as well as information about ISO's adherence to the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 261, Additive manufacturing, in cooperation
with ASTM Committee F42, Additive Manufacturing Technologies, on the basis of a partnership agreement
between ISO and ASTM International with the aim to create a common set of ISO/ASTM standards on
Additive Manufacturing.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found atwww.iso.org/members.html.

© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
iv
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
Introduction
The introduction of additive manufacturing (AM) in the production of parts to support temporary self-
sufficient systems (e.g. oil rigs, ships, forward operating bases) has opened new possibilities. However,
the limited resources (e.g. space, equipment, utilities, personnel, training…) within these systems pose
challenges for the implementation of additive manufacturing. To maintain high levels of self-sufficiency and
operational readiness while increasing resilience, a supporting AM-framework is necessary. In response to
this need, this document has been developed.
Therefore, this document not only addresses the unique requirements of additive manufacturing in self-
sufficient systems but also facilitates framework-to-framework support. Ships equipped with Level 2 AM
capabilities can support those with Level 1 AM or no capabilities from e.g. different shipping companies.
By implementing this standardized framework, collaboration and assistance between different systems
become easier, enabling the exchange of resources, expertise, and parts productions. This fosters a network
of support, enhancing overall operational readiness and effectiveness of self-sufficient systems like in the
maritime domain.
This normative approach addresses the allocation problem, where to put AM capabilities depending on
the available resources on site, not by focusing on quality or cost minimization, but rather by prioritizing
availability, speed, and the reduction of time back online and mean time to repair. The framework can be
resilience-optimized to meet the unique needs of isolated operating systems and to support them remotely
with optimized logistics. The AM integration process is dynamic, evolving through iterative phases of
analysis, structuring, and implementation. This ensures that the AM framework becomes increasingly
adaptable over time, supporting the broader adoption and effective utilization of AM technologies in
challenging environments.
The ultimate goal is to create a resilient and adaptable AM framework that can evolve with the needs of
the organization, ensuring timely and efficient technology integration while optimizing the use of available
resources.
Benefits of the Standardized Framework
In addition to its primary function of enabling additive manufacturing (AM) in self-sufficient systems,
the standardized framework brings forth a multitude of advantages, prominently among them being the
enhancement of supply chain resilience. These benefits extend to both civilian and military domains,
underlining the framework's significance.
In summary, the standardized framework not only facilitates additive manufacturing but also fosters a
cohesive AM ecosystem. It does so by promoting interoperability, collaboration, and efficiency across diverse
self-sufficient systems, thereby contributing significantly to overall supply chain resilience, particularly in
times of uncertainty or crisis.

© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
v
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
DRAFT International Standard ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
Additive manufacturing — Qualification Principles —
Framework for categorizing resources and process
capabilities
1 Scope
This document specifies a standardized level framework for the implementation of additive manufacturing
to support temporary self-sufficient systems. It defines principles and criteria, from a resource perspective
(personnel, training, infrastructure, materials, etc.) and provides guidance for categorizing additive
manufacturing processes into different levels to support self-sufficient systems (ships, oil rigs, etc.). Support
can be established through onboard and onshore operation. This covers the complete part cycle from design
(if applicable), manufacturing, to a finished part that meets requirements.
It aims to provide clarity and consistency for non-AM-experts dealing with logistical support of self-
sufficient systems.
This document is applicable to industries, military institutions, research institutions, and regulatory bodies
involved in additive manufacturing, facilitating interoperability and harmonization of practices across
different stakeholders.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO/ASTM 52900, Additive manufacturing — General principles — Fundamentals and vocabulary
ISO/ASTM 52935, Additive manufacturing of metals — Qualification principles — Qualification of coordination
personnel
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO/ASTM 52900, as well as the
following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at http:// www .electropedia .org/
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at http:// www .iso .org/ obp
3.1
temporarily self-sufficient systems
systems capable of independent operation for defined periods, meeting their own needs and tasks without
external support
Note 1 to entry: Examples are oil rick, international space station, mobile spare parts manufacturing units…
3.2
additive manufacturing level framework
structured approach and set of principles that guide the implementation and operation of additive
manufacturing within an organization

© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
4 Principle
The Level Framework for the Implementation for AM systems and personnel operating in temporarily self-
sufficient systems categorizes AM capabilities into four progressive levels. The overall goal is to support
temporarily self-sufficient systems:
— Level 1 additive manufacturing - Basic prototyping: AM equipment is designed for basic operations.
Basic training is sufficient for users, and equipment are minimal, with an emphasis on desktop or small-
scale AM-systems e.g. desktop 3D-printers. This level enables basic design and prototyping, ideal for
low-complexity, non-critical parts to be produced within the temporary self-sufficient system.
— Level 2 additive manufacturing – Intermediate production: Introduces industrial-grade AM systems,
suitable for creating functional prototypes and moderately complex parts. Intermediate training
is required, as the equipment and processes involve more intricate handling, including some part-
finalization, that can also be produced in temporary self-sufficient systems if resources are available.
— Level 3 additive manufacturing – Advanced AM capabilities: AM facilities with a high specialization,
capable of producing complex und functional parts that meet higher durability and precision standards to
optimize part availability for logistical systems to support temporary self-sufficient systems. Advanced
training is necessary for operators, and facilities often require special infrastructure.
— Level 4 additive manufacturing – Certified manufacturing: Certified manufacturing facilities with
a focus on producing parts that meet stringent standards for high-stress applications. Operators need
expert-level training and certification, and equipment includes high-end AM systems with quality
assurance capabilities. This level is intended for critical components, such as those required in industrial
or military operations, where certification and compliance are mandatory.
A principal feature and requirement of this additive manufacturing level framework is that capabilities
and processes available at a lower level can be replicated or encompassed at higher levels, allowing for a
cumulative progression of skills and technological applications.
Therefore, “level n+1” shall be able to replicate or encompass the capabilities and processes available at
“level n”.
For example, a temporary self-sufficient system which has Level 1 equipment (e.g. desktop printer)
integrated in a Level 2 AM system (e.g. AM container with industrial grade MEX machine) is classified as
Level 2 AM system.
5 Framework implementation requirements
This section describes the framework implementation requirements that are required for each level (as
described in section 4). These requirements are outlined in Table 1. This list may not be a comprehensive
list but was created to give the user ideas to consider. Each user may have additional requirements based on
their circumstances.
NOTE 1 Requirements marked with a “M” are mandatory unless the user has a specific reason why the requirement
is not applicable to their situation. Requirements marked with an “O” are optional, but the user should review and
determine what is applicable to them.
NOTE 2 Annex A descripes how additive manufacturing can be successfully integrated into organizational
structures. Practical Examples of the AM level framework application in a Navy context are given in Annex B.

© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
Table 1 — Framework Implementation Requirements by Level
Requirements Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4
Resource constraints (M) Very limited to no access to: Limited access to: Potentially limited access to: Full access to:
— digital databases (stored print — part specific post process (post — full spectrum of AM processes; — certified production environments
files); machining); this may include ISO/ASTM
[1] [2]
— post-machining; 52920, ISO/ASTM TS 52930, ISO/
[3] [4]
ASTM 52901, ISO/ASTM 52904 ;
— consumables; — finalization step of AM process
(support removal, hardening); — trained personnel (operator, AM
— no integration restrictions;
— trained personnel (operator and Coordinator Level 1 to 3);
basic designer only); — quality assurance;
— full spectrum of post-machining;
— engineering / design resources;
— part specific post process(post — trained personnel (operator and AM
machining); Coordinator level 1); — full scale of AM processes;
— expertise in reverse engineering
and advanced materials
— finalization step of AM process — EHS resources (e.g. ventilation); compatibility shall be developed — trained personnel (operator, AM
(support removal, hardening); to support Level 3 operations coordinator Level 1 to 3);
— manufacturing network (e.g. effectively;
— EHS resources; possibly temporary); — no limitations on engineering /
— resources for ongoing research and design resources;
— engineering resources; — equipment resources (utilities (e.g. development in AM to stay at the
ventilation, power, air, etc.) and forefront of technology; — specialised QA equipment as
— equipment resources (utilities (e.g. installation space; applicable.
ventilation, power, air, etc.) and — optimization of the logistics
chain to ensure efficient material
installation space; — Quality, and certification. — optimization of the logistics for the
availability for temporary self-
efficient distribution of certified
sufficient systems. components, benefiting temporary
— quality inspection.
self-sufficient systems and shore-
No access to:
based facilities.
— post processing / equipment;
— quality assurance.
Application focus (M) — primary focus on low risk — extends to producing complex — extends to comprehensive — encompasses certified
components production for parts and functional prototypes production capabilities at shore- manufacturing of critical
integration into self-sufficient for various applications at the based facilities and, in exceptional components and applications with
systems (e.g. land, sea, space, etc.); self-sufficient system (e.g. land, cases, advanced self-sufficient industry compliance at shore-based
sea, space, etc.).or at a shore based systems. facilities.
facility in close support;
— applications are foundational and
serve as proof of concept for more
advanced levels. — intermediate design capabilities for
complex components and functional
prototypes.
AM machine requirements — simple equipment or desktop 3D — advanced industrial-grade 3D — dedicated AM centres/ facilities — high-end industrial AM machines
(M) printers with basic capabilities. printing systems with moderate with specialized equipment and with advanced capabilities.
capabilities. capabilities.
Facilities (M) — temperature controlled area if — temperature and humidity — a dedicated AM centre or facility — a qualified AM centre or facility
possible; controlled as required; with specialized equipment. with specialized equipment.
— area with proper ventilation based — area with proper ventilation shall
on materials used. be fulfilled to ensure a safe working
environment.
oSIST prEN ISO 52966:2025
ISO/ASTM DIS 52966:2025(en)
© ISO/ASTM International 2025 – All rights reserved
Table 1 (continued)
Requirements Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4
Universality (O) — AM shall be possible in every self- — implementable in self-sufficient — implementable in self-sufficient — none.
sufficient system that considers systems with fewer restrictions systems with limited restrictions
using AM. regarding installation requirements regarding installation requirements
and environmental influences (e.g. and environmental influences.
swell, humidity) such as auxiliary Typically, on shore locations.
ships and oil rigs.
Quality Assurance (M) — basic quality assurance processes — enhanced quality assurance — enhanced quality assurance — enhanced quality assurance
shal
...