PBF

PBF is an acronym used for several terms across different fields. Notable meanings include powder bed fusion in additive manufacturing, the Protocolbuffer Binary Format for OpenStreetMap data, PBF Energy, and policy concepts such as performance-based funding and public benefits funds in energy policy.

Powder bed fusion refers to an additive manufacturing process that uses a heat source to selectively fuse regions of a powder bed, layer by layer, to build complex parts. Variants include laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and electron beam powder bed fusion (EB-PBF). It is widely used for metal parts and, in some cases, for polymers. Benefits include design flexibility and rapid prototyping, while challenges involve controlling porosity, achieving uniform mechanical properties, and surface finish requirements.

Protocolbuffer Binary Format is the binary encoding used for OpenStreetMap data. It employs Protocol Buffers to efficiently structure and compress map elements. PBF files are typically smaller and faster to parse than XML-based OSM data, enabling quicker data transfers and processing for mapping applications and services.

PBF Energy Corporation is an American petroleum refining and marketing company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker PBF. Founded in 2010, it operates several refineries and distribution networks in the United States, focusing on the production and sale of refined petroleum products.

Performance-based funding is a policy approach in higher education in which state appropriations to colleges and universities are linked to outcomes such as graduation rates, retention, time to degree, and closely monitored performance indicators. The model aims to incentivize efficiency and improve educational outcomes.

Public Benefits Fund refers to funds collected to support public-interest energy programs, including efficiency initiatives and renewable energy, in various jurisdictions. Allocation and administration of these funds can vary by state or country, reflecting local energy policy priorities.

Because PBF is used in multiple disciplines, context is essential to determine the intended meaning.