Kazakhstan has approved a national standard for 3D printing, defining the characteristics of raw materials and finished parts, as well as testing methods. The document will enter into force on January 1, 2027.
The national standard ST RK ISO/ASTM 52927-2026, “Additive Manufacturing — General Principles — Main Characteristics and Test Methods,” was developed by the Kazakhstan Institute of Standardization and Metrology (KazStandard). It was approved by Order No. 46-NҚ of September 25, 2026, issued by the Chairman of the Technical Regulation and Metrology Committee of the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The new document establishes a regulatory framework for the development of industrial 3D printing in the country. Its implementation will enable enterprises to establish domestic production of parts and reduce their dependence on foreign supplies.
This technology makes it possible to manufacture spare parts, tools and equipment components directly where they are needed. This is particularly important for the oil and gas, mining, energy, mechanical engineering and transport sectors.
Enterprises will be able to create “digital warehouses.” Instead of maintaining large stocks of rarely used spare parts, they can store certified 3D models and print components on demand. This approach can reduce storage and delivery costs, particularly at remote facilities.
The use of reverse engineering and 3D printing can reduce the time required to manufacture and repair parts from several months to just a few days, allowing equipment to return to operation sooner. In addition, additive manufacturing enables the production of complex-shaped components and lightweight structures while minimizing material waste.
The standard will also provide a foundation for creating a national repository of 3D models and technological data. Such a repository is essential for domestic production of critical components and for developing national expertise in design, materials development, manufacturing and product certification.
A unified regulatory framework is expected to help the country move from the occasional use of 3D printers for specific purposes towards developing a fully-fledged industry. This will create new opportunities for small engineering and manufacturing companies, service centres and specialized 3D printing bureaus.
For universities and research institutes, the document establishes a unified methodology for working with metal powders, polymers, composites and finished parts. This will help bring research and development results into industrial production. The standard will also provide a basis for the work of testing laboratories and conformity assessment bodies.
As the industry develops, demand is expected to grow for 3D modelling specialists, additive manufacturing engineers, materials scientists and quality control experts.
