ASTM International & ISO unveil framework for creating global 3D printing standards
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and ASTM International jointly crafted the Additive Manufacturing Standards Development Structure, a framework which will help meet the needs for new technical standards in this fast-growing field. Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is the process of joining materials layer upon layer, as opposed to "subtractive manufacturing" methods such as machining.
The new structure will help:
- Guide the work of global experts and standards development organizations involved in AM standardization
- Identify standards-related gaps and needs in the AM industry
- Prevent overlap and duplicative efforts in AM standards development
- Ensure cohesion among AM standards
- Prioritize AM standards areas
- Improve usability and acceptance among the AM community, including manufacturers, entrepreneurs, consumers and others
Natural & organic retail foods and beverage market hits $69B
Total U.S. retail sales of natural and organic foods and beverages through all retail channels will reach $69 billion by the end of 2016 — an 11 percent gain over 2015 sales of almost $63 billion and 32 percent higher than sales five years earlier, estimates market research publisher Packaged Facts in the new report Natural and Organic Foods and Beverages in the U.S., 5th Edition.
During the 2012-2016 period, sales rose by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7 percent. Growth of natural/organic products outpaced that of total food and beverage sales, which have been relatively flat throughout the period.
Looking ahead, Packaged Facts projects that the retail market for natural and organic foods and beverages will grow by almost 70 percent between 2016 and 2021.
Rockwell Automation expands PartnerNetwork program
Rockwell Automation has grown its PartnerNetwork program with 14 new members and four expansions among existing members. The PartnerNetwork program is designed to help industrial companies better solve their manufacturing and automation challenges with an expansive ecosystem of leading suppliers, distributors, system integrators, and machine and equipment builders. The program offers global manufacturers access to a collaborative network of companies mutually focused on developing, implementing and supporting best-in-breed solutions to achieve plant-wide optimization, improve machine performance and meet sustainability objectives.
