Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about our services, processes, and support.
We are already certified by another company. How can we switch to Qualified AM Standard?
Contact us, and lets evaluate if this makes sense. Our value proposition targets, the high-end industrial readiness.
Why are so many documents within a QMS required?
Our society believes that written rules are generally followed, while those unwritten are not. We recognize that this situation presents a significant challenge for agile operations and R&D. As companies shift their focus towards reproducible and trustworthy AM production demands in regulated industries, “documented processes” become the standard. We provide user-friendly templates to simplify the documentation process for our customers.
Isn’t there a conflict of interest when Qualified AM GmbH advises and certify in the same project?
This could happen if our services would not be orgynised. We adhere to the four-eye principle, ensuring that our audit work is always reviewed by a second pair of eyes. Additionally, the certificate issuance process is organized to guarantee compliance.
We produce our AM parts ourselves since more than 10 years, all is good, so why do we need Qualified AM standard?
If your processes are reproducible and auditable by third parties, you may need us only to show that you stand apart from conventional “prototyping service” focused manufacturers.
What is the advantage to be listed at QualifiedAM.com as a certified company?
Industry players and supply chain owners are increasingly using this service to order their AM parts from certified production lines. Check out the link for committed industries such as Semiconductor, Rail, Medical, Energy, etc.
Why can QAM help us to attchieve more clients and orders?
Experience demonstrates that both current and prospective customers will recognize the Qualified AM Standard through your services and staff expertise. Therefor the interest in more AM parts will automatically rise.
Moreover, we will promote your competencies at the EU trade shows, exhibitions, and across relevant social media platforms.
Can I still use non-certified processes after certification?
Yes, we only certify the AM system, material, and process parameters intended for use in production within your facility.
How long does a project with QAM take?
It depends on the readiness level of the qualified production and staff availability. We can manage to set up a fully qualified line in a 3-month sprint, but it can also take much longer. On average, our projects, which include Phase 0 (Goal Setting) to Phase 5 (Certification), take 6 months.
Will I lose my production flexibility as a result of certification?
For prototyping services, the flexibility stays same as before. For industrial-grade parts, processes, and business models, the flexibility is higher. Due to the enabling character of the Qualified AM Standard, the production flexibility is increased in the area of complex parts, regulated industries, risky applications, reproducible processes, on-demand manufacturing, and controlled supply chains.
How do standards help with AM implementation?
A useful standard for AM, which stands for Manufacturing, should offer a clear route for implementation. For instance, ISO/ASTM 52920 includes 155 mandatory requirements, directing users to essential quality criteria for additive parts and processes. Ideally, this standard is implemented with “hands-on expertise” in AM processes, and/or the QMS system is continually challenged and improved.