Investing in an advanced metal additive manufacturing system can be a daunting proposition. Even for engineers well-versed in the technology, each solution has nuances, safety requirements, and processes for getting the most out of the system.
The Velo3D advanced metal AM system relies on a dedicated support team that guides clients through the ins and outs of Velo’s integrated solution from design through manufacturing.
This consultative approach enables clients to unlock the full potential of the system. More than that, however, Velo3D’s belief in knowledge sharing extends to Sapphire-specific training and certification included with every system.
This blog will explore the Operator Training Program and what it means for our clients.
Velo3D’s Learning Management System
Included with every Velo3D system is unlimited access to our Learning Management System (LMS). While our engineers are always available to answer questions and walk our clients through the printing process, our LMS is a resource available for clients to educate themselves to gain a fuller understanding of the system and have videos on hand that explains all user-level maintenance activities.
The Velo3D Operator Training Program
With a system as powerful as Sapphire, it’s natural to feel slightly anxious before operating it for the first time.
That’s why the Velo3D Operator Training Program is designed to be a hands-on way of giving teams the assurance they need to make the most of our Sapphire printers while understanding the necessary safety protocols of the machines.
The program works on two levels, Essential and Advanced, and are designed to support the needs of the operators and the businesses they support.
The Essential Level
The first step of the Operator Training Program is designed specifically for those new to Velo3D and our Sapphire printing systems. Operator safety is the priority for this level. This course is provided entirely online and provides an overview of Sapphire’s hardware and fully integrated software.
There are no prerequisites for the Essential level, and unlimited team members can go through the course. Because it’s online, the program can be accessed 24/7.
While there is no final assessment to pass the Essential level, there are quizzes to test team members’ knowledge.Team members are ready to move onto the Advanced program when the Essential level is completed.
The Advanced Level
Advanced operator training is an in-person session conducted over three days and delivered by a Velo3D trainer or Field Service Engineer (FSE) at the customer location. This program provides hands-on training that contextualizes the documentation provided and expands upon the Essential course.
All aspects of the “build procedures,” “calibration and alignment,” and “maintenance” items are performed or reviewed. This level prepares the user for the solo operation of Sapphire. The Advanced course is available for up to five trainees at a time.
The culmination of the Advanced program is a comprehensive assessment featuring primarily multiple-choice questions. Use of reference documentation is allowed in the evaluation, and the trainee must achieve 80% or better to be considered certified.
After a successful assessment, the team member will be certified as an operator on the Sapphire printer for two years. After two years, the operator is required to recertify.
Mark Laizure – Training Manager, Velo3D
Setting Teams Up for Success
Velo3D is on a mission to advance the acceptance and utility of advanced metal additive manufacturing.
Through our robust client support process, we work to ensure that every Velo3D system is used to its optimal capacity and as safely as possible.
Our Operator Training Program is just another facet of our commitment to customer success.
Ready to get started with Velo3D? Contact our team today to learn more.
