Overview of 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing

316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing comprises a broad category of finely divided, solid particles derived from various metals or metal alloys. These powders exhibit unique characteristics that make them indispensable in modern manufacturing and advanced technologies.

Key Characteristics of 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing

1. Particle Size and Distribution: The size and uniformity of particles significantly influence flowability, packing density, and the final product’s mechanical and physical properties. Finer powders generally offer a larger surface area, which is beneficial for reactions and sintering but may also increase aggregation.

2. Composition: Metal powders can be elemental (pure metal) or alloyed, combining two or more metals to achieve desired properties such as enhanced strength, corrosion resistance, or electrical conductivity.

3. Shape: Particle shapes range from spherical to irregular or flake-like. Spherical powders provide better flowability and packing, while flake-shaped powders are suited for coatings and electronic applications due to their unique orientation and surface area.

4. Purity: Depending on the application, metal powders can be highly purified to remove impurities, critical for uses in electronics, aerospace, and medical devices where contamination could compromise performance.

(316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing)

Parameters of 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing

316L stainless steel powder for metal 3D printing, also known as Inconel 316L or Maraging Steel 20, is a popular choice due to its corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. Here are some key parameters for this material:

1. Material composition: 316L contains approximately 18-20% chromium, 8-10% nickel, and a minimum of 0.03% molybdenum, along with trace amounts of carbon and other elements. It may also have some titanium or nitrogen added to enhance properties.

2. Particle size distribution: The powder usually ranges from 25-100 microns in diameter, with a narrow particle size distribution for better print quality and fewer support structures.

3. Density: 316L stainless steel has a density around 7.9 g/cm³, which is slightly higher than typical metals like aluminum but lower than tungsten carbide or gold.

4. Melting point: The melting point of 316L is around 1,670°C (3,040°F), which is suitable for most industrial-grade 3D printers.

5. Printability: The powder requires high energy input during the sintering process, often using selective laser melting (SLM) or electron beam melting (EBM) techniques, to achieve good fusion and dense parts.

6. Strength: 316L offers good mechanical strength, with yield strengths typically between 450-550 MPa (65,000-80,000 psi) and ultimate tensile strengths of around 700-900 MPa (100,000-130,000 psi).

7. Corrosion resistance: The addition of molybdenum makes 316L highly resistant to chloride pitting and stress corrosion, making it suitable for marine, chemical, and food processing environments.

8. Biocompatibility: For medical applications, 316L stainless steel meets ISO 10993 standards, ensuring low cytotoxicity and good biocompatibility.

9. Post-processing: Parts printed with 316L may require additional heat treatment, such as annealing, to improve mechanical properties and reduce stresses.

Remember that these parameters can vary depending on the specific manufacturer and their production methods. Always consult the supplier’s specifications for the most accurate information.

(316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing)

Company Profile

Metal in China is a trusted global chemical material supplier & manufacturer with over 12-year-experience in providing super high-quality copper and relatives products.

The company has a professional technical department and Quality Supervision Department, a well-equipped laboratory, and equipped with advanced testing equipment and after-sales customer service center.

If you are looking for high-quality metal powder and relative products, please feel free to contact us or click on the needed products to send an inquiry.

Payment Methods

L/C, T/T, Western Union, Paypal, Credit Card etc.

Shipment

It could be shipped by sea, by air, or by reveal ASAP as soon as repayment receipt.

FAQs of 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing

Q1. What exactly is 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing, and how is it different from solid metal?

316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing consists of tiny particles of pure metals or metal alloys. Unlike solid metal, which exists as a continuous mass, metal powder offers increased surface area, making it more reactive and easier to form into complex shapes through processes like sintering or 3D printing.

Q2. How is 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing produced, and what are the common production methods?

316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing is typically produced through several methods, including:

– Atomization: Molten metal is sprayed into fine droplets that cool and solidify into powder.

– Chemical reduction: Metal oxides are reduced to their elemental state to form powder.

– Electrolysis: Electrical current is used to deposit metal onto a cathode, later harvested as powder.

– Mechanical processes: Large metal pieces are milled or ground down into powder.

Q3. What factors determine the quality and suitability of metal powders for different applications?

Quality and suitability depend on factors like:

– Particle size and distribution: Affects flowability, packing density, and final product properties.

– Composition and purity: Determines the material’s properties and its appropriateness for specific uses.

– Shape: Spherical powders for better flow, flake shapes for coatings.

– Density and porosity: Influences strength and other mechanical properties.

Q4. What safety precautions should be taken when handling metal powders?

Safety measures include:

– Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, goggles, and respirators.

– Storing powders in airtight containers away from moisture, heat, and ignition sources.

– Using explosion-proof equipment in processing areas.

– Ensuring proper ventilation to avoid dust accumulation and inhalation risks.

– Following strict handling procedures to prevent spills and cross-contamination.

Q5. How are 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing used in the manufacturing industry?

316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing find applications in:

– Powder Metallurgy: To create parts by compacting and sintering, ideal for mass production of complex components.

– Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): Layer-by-layer construction of parts for customized and intricate designs.

– Thermal Spray Coatings: Applying protective or functional coatings to surfaces for corrosion resistance, etc.

– Electronics: Precious metal powders in conductive pastes, connectors, and other components.

– Chemical and Catalyst Industries: As catalysts due to their high surface area, promoting chemical reactions.

Q6. Are 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing recyclable or reusable?

Yes, 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing can often be recycled or reused. Unused powder or scrap from manufacturing processes can frequently be collected, reprocessed, and reintroduced into production cycles, contributing to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Q7. How does the cost of 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing compare to traditional metal forms?

The cost depends on factors like the metal type, production method, and purity. While 316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing may initially seem more expensive due to additional processing, their efficiency in certain manufacturing processes (like producing complex shapes with minimal waste) can lead to overall cost savings.

(316l stainless steel powder for metal 3d printing)