ERP metal 3D printing is no longer a niche idea, but a necessity for manufacturers. A single build can run for more than 40 hours, and every hour adds cost in laser time, powder consumption, and labor.
Without the right system, even one failed run can burn through thousands in wasted materials and machine capacity. That’s why choosing the right system for your business is crucial. But how do you know which one is the best?
To help you evaluate the best options, we have recommended this article as a guide. Inside, you will find software platforms that address scheduling, cost control, and traceability; critical areas for any manufacturer adopting metal additive workflows.
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What is Metal 3D Printing Software?
ERP metal 3D printing is the combination of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software with advanced metal 3D printing technology. Instead of using traditional cutting or casting, metal 3D printers use lasers to melt fine layers of metal powder, which turns digital designs into parts.
ERP connects the printing workflow with inventory, scheduling, costing, and quality checks in one system. That means every step, from raw material usage to the finished product, is tracked and managed efficiently.
For industries like aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, this integration delivers precision and full visibility and control.
Key Features to Look for in ERP Metal 3D Printing
Choosing an ERP for metal 3D printing isn’t the same as picking a standard system. It needs to support things like powder tracking, regulatory compliance, and the extra steps involved after printing. Here are the key features you should pay attention to:
1. Material Traceability and Lot Control
Each batch of metal powder should be logged with heat numbers, lot IDs, and expiry dates. That way, manufacturers can trace exactly which batch went into a specific build — a must when serving clients who demand certificates of origin and full documentation.
2. Build Scheduling and Machine Utilization
Metal 3D printing runs can take days, not hours. ERP needs to help plan jobs around machine availability, prioritize urgent orders, and align downstream steps like stress relief, heat treatment, or finishing, so production doesn’t stall.
3. Powder Consumption Tracking
Since metal powders can be reused but degrade after several cycles, ERP should track refresh ratios, mixing records, and scrap rates. This ensures consistent quality while keeping material costs under control.
4. Integrated Quality Management
ERP should capture inspection data such as tensile strength tests, porosity scans, and non-destructive evaluations. It should also attach digital batch records and certificates directly to each part, giving customers confidence in every delivery.
5. Dynamic Costing and Quoting
Instead of rough estimates, ERP should calculate part costs based on laser time, powder usage, operator hours, and post-processing. That level of detail makes quotes more accurate and reduces disputes with clients.
6. Supply Chain & Compliance Readiness
A strong ERP can manage supplier certifications, keep track of consumables, and automatically generate compliance documents when needed. It also alerts teams when materials or spare parts drop below safe thresholds.
7. Scalability and Multi-Site Control
As production grows from prototypes to batch runs, ERP must support multiple machines and sites. Real-time dashboards make it easier to balance workloads, monitor performance, and keep operations consistent across facilities.
Best 10 ERP Metal 3D Printing Software in 2025
Here are the top 10 ERP for metal 3D printer companies in Malaysia in 2025.
1. HashMicro
HashMicro delivers a fully integrated ERP platform that supports the specific needs of advanced manufacturing. The system connects production control, inventory, finance, and quality, so every stage of a build sits inside one environment.
It records batch genealogy for metal powders, links process parameters to part history, and ties all data directly to compliance and costing records.
In ERP metal 3D printing workflows, HashMicro allows manufacturers to plan long build cycles, track powder reuse ratios, and manage post-processing routes without losing accuracy.
It consolidates Certificates of Conformance, machine utilization data, and job records automatically, which reduces audit pressure and ensures full accountability across the shop floor.
HashMicro’s Key Features:
- Batch genealogy and powder traceability: Track powder lots, refresh cycles, expiry dates, and link them to each finished part.
- MRP and advanced scheduling: Plan long laser build cycles, allocate resources, and coordinate post-processing steps such as HIP or CNC.
- Integrated quality and CoC management: Record inspection data and generate audit-ready Certificates of Conformance tied to production orders.
- Machine utilization and cost capture: Log laser time, energy use, and operator hours, then link directly to job costing.
- Multi-site production control: Standardize workflows across facilities while maintaining real-time visibility of machine and material status.
- Custom analytics and financial integration: Connect operational data with financial ledgers to calculate true part costs and margins with accuracy.
Pros:
- Unlimited users: Businesses can expand without paying extra for every new seat.
- Localized support: Dedicated SEA-based customer support that understands regional business practices.
- Robust modular system: Covers production, finance, inventory, quality, and HR in one platform.
- Advanced batch control: Tracks powder lots, refresh cycles, and expiry dates for audit-ready compliance.
- Customizable workflows: Tailors build scheduling, approvals, and reporting to specific operations.
- Strong integration: Links seamlessly with accounting, procurement, and CRM modules for end-to-end coverage.
- Scalable architecture: Supports growth from pilot runs to multi-site additive manufacturing operations.
Con:
- Implementation requires planning: With its wide feature set, companies need proper onboarding to unlock full value.
2. MRPeasy
MRPeasy is a lightweight manufacturing production planning software for small to medium manufacturers adopting advanced processes like metal 3D printing. It supports production scheduling, order management, and material tracking in a clean, accessible interface.
For additive shops, it’s particularly useful in monitoring powder consumption and build times, while its BOM features make it easier to plan post-processing steps.
Features:
- Production planning and scheduling
- Inventory and material tracking
- Multi-level BOM support
- Real-time costing and quoting
Pros:
- Clear browser-based UI that suits smaller workshops without heavy IT support.
- Built-in multi-level BOM useful for complex additive builds.
- Affordable pricing model that scales well for SMEs.
Cons:
- Limited advanced compliance reporting compared to enterprise ERPs.
- No deep machine data capture for laser printers.
- Struggles with very high-volume, multi-site operations.
3. Authentise
Authentise is an AM-native workflow platform built for industries that use metal 3D printing. It manages the full process from job intake to post-processing, while capturing critical machine and material data along the way.
For powder-based printing, it tracks powder reuse cycles, records machine parameters, and generates compliance-ready documentation for every part.
Features:
- Automated job and order management
- Real-time machine data capture
- Powder and part traceability
- Compliance documentation generation
Pros:
- Native AM workflow management, not retrofitted from generic ERP.
- Detailed powder and part traceability linked directly to build jobs.
- Real-time machine data capture from laser and DED systems.
Cons:
- Less emphasis on financial and accounting modules.
- Requires integration with external ERP for full enterprise scope.
- User interface can feel complex for non-technical staff.
4. 3DPrinterOS
3DPrinterOS is a cloud-based management platform that connects multiple 3D printers, including those used for metal production. Originally built for desktop and polymer printing, it now offers fleet management, version control, and remote monitoring for metal 3D printing labs.
Its role in metal AM is strongest where organizations need centralized control over many printers and want to streamline print job management.
Features:
- Centralized fleet and job management
- Cloud-based file and version control
- Remote monitoring of builds
- Multi-printer scheduling and access control
Pros:
- Strong fleet and job management across multiple printers.
- Cloud-based file version control with secure access.
- Centralized user permissions to manage shared lab environments.
Cons:
- Origins in desktop printing mean fewer advanced manufacturing features.
- Limited support for powder batch or reuse cycle tracking.
- Requires customization for compliance-heavy industries.
5. Infor CloudSuite
Infor CloudSuite is a full-scale ERP platform built for manufacturers with complex production requirements. It supports detailed lot and serial tracking, advanced scheduling to handle long machine cycles, and integrated quality controls for highly regulated parts.
With supply chain and finance modules tied in, it helps ensure that every build job, from raw powder intake to post-processing, stays fully connected to the wider business.
Features:
- Lot and serial number traceability
- Advanced production and build scheduling
- Integrated quality and compliance tools
- Supply chain and inventory management
Pros:
- Mature lot and serial tracking across regulated supply chains.
- Advanced scheduling to handle extended machine cycles.
- Deep finance and analytics modules for enterprise reporting.
Cons:
- Complex implementation process with long rollout times.
- High licensing and customization costs.
- Requires specialized training for effective use.
6. Epicor ERP
Epicor ERP is flexible manufacturing software often chosen by discrete manufacturers that need to manage both traditional and advanced production methods. It combines shop floor scheduling with real-time material control, so it suits long build cycles and complex part routes.
Its strength lies in how it ties production data directly to cost, quality, and supply chain processes, giving manufacturers clear oversight of every stage.
Features:
- Shop floor scheduling and resource planning
- Real-time material and inventory tracking
- Integrated quality and compliance features
- Production cost analysis and reporting
Pros:
- Strong discrete manufacturing focus with robust MRP capabilities.
- Flexible routing control for multi-step post-processing.
- Costing modules that tie directly to production data.
Cons:
- Interface feels dated compared to newer cloud systems.
- Limited out-of-the-box support for AM-specific workflows.
- May demand heavy IT resources for on-premise setups.
7. NetSuite ERP
NetSuite ERP is a cloud-based platform that supports manufacturers across finance, operations, and production. It offers strong control over multi-site facilities, with tools to manage complex part requirements and long production cycles.
By linking inventory, quality, and cost data in one system, it gives manufacturers a clear view from raw material intake to finished parts.
Features:
- Multi-site production management
- Advanced inventory and lot traceability
- Integrated quality and compliance control
- Financial and cost management
Pros:
- Cloud-native system with reliable scalability.
- Strong multi-site and multi-currency support.
- Integrates financial and operational data in real time.
Cons:
- Expensive add-ons often required for manufacturing modules.
- Weak native features for powder or part traceability.
- Customization requires third-party specialists.
8. Odoo
Odoo is an open-source ERP that gives you the flexibility to add only the apps you need. You can start with manufacturing, inventory, or quality, and expand as your operations grow.
In a metal printing setup, it helps track powder batches, schedule production, and tie quality checks directly to each part. The result is a system that stays affordable while still covering the essentials.
Features:
- Modular apps for manufacturing and inventory
- Lot and serial tracking for materials
- Quality and compliance checks
- Customizable dashboards and reports
Pros:
- Modular structure lets companies adopt only needed apps.
- BOM, MRP, and QC modules available at a fraction of enterprise cost.
- Open-source flexibility allows in-depth customization.
Cons:
- Community edition lacks advanced features for production control.
- Traceability features require heavy configuration.
- Scalability issues when handling enterprise-level workloads.
9. WorkPLAN
WorkPLAN is an ERP and MES solution built for project-based manufacturing, where each job has unique requirements. It offers detailed quoting, order tracking, and job cost control, which suits shops that produce complex one-off or small-batch parts.
Its modules cover material traceability, scheduling, and documentation, so manufacturers maintain precision across demanding builds.
Features:
- Project and job-based cost control
- Detailed order and workflow tracking
- Material and batch traceability
- Integrated scheduling and documentation
Pros:
- Purpose-built for project and job-shop style production.
- Strong cost control tools linked to unique builds.
- Integrated document management for project records.
Cons:
- Less financial depth compared to full ERP suites.
- Not ideal for repetitive, high-volume manufacturing.
- User experience may feel rigid compared to newer cloud systems.
10. Plex Manufacturing Cloud
Plex Manufacturing Cloud is a cloud-based ERP platform that gives manufacturers real-time visibility across production and supply chains. It fits ERP metal 3D printing environments with its ability to monitor machine data, track material batches, and link quality results to every part.
With its scalability, manufacturers can expand from prototyping into larger production runs while keeping full control of cost and compliance.
Features:
- Real-time production and machine monitoring
- Lot and batch traceability
- Integrated quality and compliance control
- Cloud scalability for multi-site operations
Pros:
- Real-time production monitoring across machines and sites.
- Cloud-first architecture with strong data security.
- Integrated quality control tied directly to job records.
Cons:
- Customization options remain limited compared to on-premise ERPs.
- Complex pricing for scaling users and modules.
- Reporting flexibility can lag behind competitors.
How to Choose the Right Software for Your Business
When selecting ERP metal 3D printing software, focus on whether the system matches your production needs and compliance requirements. Consider these key factors:
- Fit with Production Scale: Some platforms suit small workshops running a few builds at a time, while others handle enterprise-level, multi-site operations. Match the system’s complexity to your current capacity and growth plans.
- Material and Batch Control: Ensure the software supports detailed tracking of powder lots, reuse cycles, and certification records. This is critical for expensive materials and industries with strict standards.
- Integration with Existing Systems: The ERP should connect smoothly with CAD, PLM, or MES tools you already use. Lack of integration often leads to duplicate work and inconsistent data.
- Compliance and Quality Requirements: Check if the system provides audit-ready reports, digital batch records, and links inspection data directly to production orders. These features reduce the burden of meeting customer or regulatory standards.
- Ease of Use and Support: Even advanced systems need to remain accessible for daily operations. Evaluate the user interface, training availability, and vendor support before committing.
Conclusion
ERP metal 3D printing connects production, cost, and compliance into one system, preventing errors and wasted resources. Manufacturers gain tighter control over powder usage, scheduling, and quality, which ensures efficiency, consistency, and scalability.
HashMicro ERP offers advanced batch control, strong scheduling, and unlimited user access to support growing additive operations. With localized support and customizable modules, it helps businesses achieve compliance while keeping production costs transparent and predictable.
By choosing HashMicro, manufacturers secure a reliable partner that understands complex workflows and regional business needs. Click here to request your free demo and explore how HashMicro ERP can transform your 3D printing operations with confidence!
FAQ on ERP Metal 3D Printing
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Do I need an MES if I already use an ERP?
Yes—ERP handles planning, resources, finance, and compliance, while MES captures real-time shop-floor data and controls execution. In practice, ERP plans the build and tracks costs, MES records machine parameters and quality as the job runs.
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Which standards govern metal additive manufacturing?
Core references include ISO/ASTM 52900 for AM terminology and ISO/ASTM 52909 for metal AM orientation conventions. Powder characterization often follows ASTM guides like F3049, with ISO TC 261 and ASTM F42 harmonizing global standards.
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Can you reuse metal 3D printing powder, and how is it managed?
Yes—shops typically reuse powder with controlled “refresh” by adding virgin powder, while monitoring oxygen, particle size, and flow. Good practice includes sieving, sampling per ASTM standards, and documenting reuse cycles in the ERP or QMS.
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How long does an ERP implementation take for a manufacturing operation?
Timelines vary: small cloud rollouts may complete in months, while large multi-site programs often take 6–24 months. Scope, integration with MES/PLM, and data migration complexity are the main factors.
