Automating Powder Handling in Additive Manufacturing: From ERP Purchase Orders to Part Genealogy
- Authentise Team
- Feb 8, 2025
- 1 min read
Updated: Dec 5, 2025
Automating Powder Handling: From ERP Purchase Orders to Part Genealogy
TL;DR
Automated handling eliminates human error
ERP → MES → container workflows create full traceability
Reduces waste, scrap, and rework
Automates reconciliation
Supports compliance
Powder handling is still one of the most manual steps in AM - and one of the riskiest. Automating it reduces the burden on operators and prevents the small errors that become big problems.
Why This Matters
Manual powder handling causes:
Overlooked weights
Mislabelled containers
Wrong batch usage
Lost genealogy
Failed audits
Automation eliminates these.
How It Works / What to Consider
1. ERP → Material Receipt
Purchase orders flow automatically into MES.
2. Automatic Container Assignment
Each batch is placed into pre-registered containers.
3. Automated Scales & Logging
Scale data logs automatically into MES.
4. Automated Reuse Cycle Rules
MES prevents misuse of expired powder.
5. Build Linking
Every container is digitally attached to each job.
Step-by-Step Checklist
Integrate ERP → MES
Create material receipt rules
Implement digital scales
Barcode all containers
Automate reuse limits
Link containers to builds
Review monthly reconciliation
KPIs
Automated entries vs manual: 85–95%
Mislabelled containers: 0
Reconciliation accuracy: >98%
Genealogy retrieval time: <20s
Conclusion
Automating powder handling creates a more reliable, compliant workflow with fewer errors and higher repeatability.
👉 Related reading: Powder Genealogy in AM
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