Raw materials of high quality –such as powder as a source product– are essential for achieving an excellent result, as they are the ingredients that produce the key features of a top-class AM product: purity, reliability and durability. Analysis of particle size and distribution measurement, composition, impurities, and particle compression-rupture strength are critical for determining particle size and shape, contamination and the dynamic measurement of deformation characteristics of fine particles.

Semi-finished products such as rods and plates need to be tested for defects, e.g. inclusions voids, in order to prevent material and product failures. A range of mechanical testing and physical measurement are methods of choice to determine the effect of defects on mechanical properties.

Finished products and components have to reliably withstand real-life loads in order to provide dependability, product safety, and user and liability protection. Static and fatigue testing methods, as well as X-ray CT inspection, give manufacturers insights into the capacities of their components and allow them to proactively make adjustments.