API Enhances 3D Printing Guidelines with Updated Additive Manufacturing Standard

Significant Updates and Changes

Additive manufacturing is transforming the oil and natural gas industry, as it enables the anchoring of critical manufacturing close to the point of utilization. Recognizing the growing role of 3D printing in energy operations, API published the first edition of API Standard 20S in 2021, establishing foundational qualification requirements for additively manufactured metallic components.

The newly released second edition builds on that foundation, introducing more robust qualification requirements that enhance equipment efficiency, shorten lead times and improve overall productivity. Additionally, by optimizing material use and reducing reliance on long-distance supply chains, the standard supports a significant reduction in Scope 3 emissions compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

More specifically, this edition updates the Essential Additive Manufacturing Variables section to align with the ASME QW-600 approach for directed energy deposition (DED)-Arc processes. It also introduces a new Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) annex, providing enhanced inspection criteria and AM-specific testing methodologies, which promote quality and integrity. 
 

Continuous Improvement 

As the leading standards-setting organization for the oil and natural gas industry, API remains committed to enhancing operational integrity and safety through advancements in manufacturing technologies and recognized good practices. By incorporating the latest innovations and industry feedback, the second edition of API Standard 20S furthers that commitment, providing a critical framework for the effective deployment of AM in oil and natural gas. This ensures that companies can adopt these innovations with confidence.

For more information on API Standard 20S, 2nd edition, visit the API Webstore.
 
API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our nearly 600 members produce, process and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency and sustainability.