DNV Expands Its Additive Manufacturing Standard To Boost Sustainability And Industrial Adoption

DNV has released a major update to its flagship additive manufacturing (AM) standard, DNV-ST-B203, marking a significant step forward in advancing safe, cost-effective, and sustainable 3D printing for the energy and maritime sectors. Developed through the ProGRAM joint industry project (JIP), the new edition expands the scope to polymer parts and introduces enhanced guidelines for design, sustainability, and qualification strengthening industry confidence in AM technologies.

Strengthened Framework for Design, Sustainability and Qualification

The updated standard now offers comprehensive design guidelines that help engineers maximize the capabilities of AM by optimizing part geometry, selecting suitable materials, and improving overall performance. A notable addition is the introduction of CO₂ footprint reporting, providing a clear methodology to measure and compare the environmental impact of AM-produced parts.
The qualification system has also been streamlined, enabling manufacturers to group parts under shared qualifications. This reduces repetitive testing, lowers costs, and speeds up industrial adoption. The standard also clarifies acceptance criteria, part families, and in-process monitoring to improve reliability and efficiency.

Inclusion of Polymer AM Parts to Reflect Growing Industry Demand

For the first time, DNV-ST-B203 includes a full qualification framework for polymer-based AM parts. As polymers continue gaining ground in industrial applications due to their versatility and cost benefits, the updated standard ensures that manufacturers have a robust and consistent pathway for qualification and performance verification.
Leaders at DNV emphasize that the update will help industries reduce waste, strengthen supply chain efficiency, and boost confidence in AM technologies. The digital nature of AM also supports new forms of quality control and digital inventory concepts areas that will be explored further in the next phase of the ProGRAM JIP.

DNV’s expanded AM standard sets a stronger foundation for safe, scalable, and sustainable adoption of 3D printing across the energy and maritime sectors. With new design rules, environmental metrics, and polymer coverage, the update supports the industry’s move toward reduced material waste, lower emissions, and more resilient supply chains. As DNV and its partners continue advancing digital inventories and new AM technologies, the standard is poised to play a central role in unlocking the full potential of additive manufacturing.