Powder bed fusion/sintering machines: safety at workplaces

Abstract

The use of additive machine (AM) is constantly growing in Italy and in the application of hard-to-melt materials (such as high temperature alloys, metal-ceramics composites). This technology reduces scraps and wastes and enhances industrial processes. Powder bed fusion and sintering machines find application above all in automotive and aeronautical sector, but other processes can find application too. Italian National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL) develops research activities for health and safety at work. These activities try to catch the opportunities and solve emerging issues especially rising from the integration of new and challenging technologies in workplaces. How 3D printers change work activities and what kind of risks are rising on? This paper aims at defining the new workplaces, characterizing them for hazard and risks rising from the use of powder bed fusion/sintering additive machines, with reference to the Safety Regulation (Machine Directive 2006/42/CE and Decree 81/08). The employer manages them since buying an AM machine and materials for manufacturing, moreover he/she gives employees information and training to work in a safe manner. Manufacturing characteristics and needs deeply affect the risk assessment; moreover, this assessment has to take into account other risks due to interference with other equipment and/or operators.