Material documentation
Record requested alloy, resin family, finish, and certificate expectations before route selection.
Sustainability and compliance
Resource-aware additive manufacturing with practical documentation
Desktop Metal approaches sustainability through process fit. Additive manufacturing can reduce waste, shorten development loops, consolidate parts, and support localized bridge production, but it is only responsible when material, energy, post-processing, and repeatability are considered honestly. The sustainability workflow therefore focuses on route selection, material stewardship, quality evidence, and clear buyer communication rather than generic claims.
This page summarizes how teams can evaluate additive routes against environmental and compliance expectations before approving tooling, equipment components, or production support parts.
Structured ESG data
What we track during manufacturing route review
| Review area | What is checked | Buyer value |
|---|---|---|
| Material use | Powder, resin, support, scrap, and post-process losses | Clearer comparison against machined-from-billet waste |
| Build strategy | Orientation, nesting, batch planning, and repeatability assumptions | Less rework when the program moves beyond the first sample |
| Local production | Bridge run location, logistics impact, and urgency of replacement parts | Shorter feedback loops for launch and service teams |
| Documentation | Material notes, inspection expectations, and release evidence | Better internal approval and supplier accountability |
Checklist format
Compliance conversations stay connected to the part
Different customers need different proof. Some require a simple material note and dimensional report. Others need first-article logic, aerospace documentation, medical device awareness, or internal change-control language. Desktop Metal keeps these expectations attached to the CAD review so the sustainability and compliance story does not become separate from manufacturing reality.
Inspection scope
Identify critical dimensions, cosmetic surfaces, and any CMM or FAI-style reporting needs.
Waste and rework control
Use DfAM review to reduce failed builds, excess support structures, and avoidable post-machining.
Repeat program notes
Capture assumptions for future bridge runs so each reorder improves instead of restarting.