Product Description
In the rapidly evolving world of 3D printing, materials play a pivotal role in determining the quality and durability of the final product. Among these materials, stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder stands out as a corrosion-resistant alloy, offering exceptional properties for various applications.
Stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder is an alloy composed primarily of iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni). The typical composition ratios are Fe:Cr:Ni; 70:17:13 wt%. This combination grants the alloy its corrosion-resistant properties, making it ideal for environments where durability and resistance to oxidation are paramount.
- Corrosion Resistance: The presence of chromium and nickel in the alloy enhances its ability to withstand corrosive environments, making it suitable for applications in harsh conditions.
- High Temperature Resistance: Stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder can endure high temperatures, which is crucial for processes like metal injection molding and additive manufacturing.
- Mechanical Strength: This alloy offers excellent mechanical properties, including strength, hardness, and toughness, which are essential for creating durable 3D printed parts.
Stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder is widely used in additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. Its unique properties make it suitable for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical, and more.
In the automotive sector, stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder is utilized to produce high-strength components such as gears, shafts, and fasteners. Its corrosion resistance ensures longevity, while its mechanical strength supports the structural integrity of the parts.
The aerospace industry benefits from the high-temperature resistance and strength of stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder. It is used to manufacture critical components like fittings, nozzles, and valve parts that must withstand extreme conditions and maintain performance.
Due to its biocompatibility and corrosion resistance, stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder finds applications in medical implants and surgical instruments. The alloy's durability ensures that these components can endure the physiological environment without degrading over time.
Beyond automotive, aerospace, and medical, stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder is also used in food processing, petrochemical, and manufacturing industries. Its versatility allows it to be molded into complex shapes and forms, catering to diverse applications.
When choosing a stainless steel alloy for 3D printing, understanding the differences between various types is crucial. Let's compare Fe-Cr-Ni powder with other popular stainless steel powders like 310 and 316.
310 stainless steel powder is an austenitic alloy known for its high chromium and nickel content, providing enhanced mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. It is often used in applications requiring hardness and wear resistance, such as valve parts and surgical instruments.
316 stainless steel powder offers excellent corrosion resistance, especially against chloride environments, making it ideal for marine applications and chemical plants. While it may have lower strength compared to 310, its superior corrosion resistance makes it a preferred choice for environments where oxidation is a concern.
The production of stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder involves advanced techniques like gas atomization and water atomization. These methods ensure the powder's purity and consistent particle size, which are vital for achieving optimal performance in 3D printing.
Proper handling and storage of stainless steel Fe-Cr-Ni powder are essential to maintain its quality. It is recommended to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure proper ventilation to avoid exposure to fine metallic particles. Additionally, storing the powder in stable containers prevents contamination and oxidation.
| Property | Iron-Based Alloy Powders | Stainless Steel (316L) | Nickel Alloys (Inconel 625) | Titanium (Ti-6Al-4V) |
| Density (g/cm³) | 7.4–7.9 (varies by alloy) | 7.9 | 8.4 | 4.4 |
| Hardness (HRC) | 20–65 (depends on heat treatment) | 25–35 | 20–40 (annealed) | 36–40 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 300–1,500+ | 500–700 | 900–1,200 | 900–1,100 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate (improves with Cr/Ni) | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Max Operating Temp. (°C) | 500–1,200 (alloy-dependent) | 800 | 1,000+ | 600 |
| Cost (vs. Pure Fe = 1x) | 1x–5x (alloy-dependent) | 3x–5x | 10x–20x | 20x–30x |
Injection molding of powder injection molding technology
Compared with traditional process, with high precision, homogeneity, good performance, low production cost, etc. In recent years, with the rapid development of MIM technology, its products have been widely used in consumer electronics, communications and information engineering, biological medical equipment, automobiles, watch industry, weapons and aerospace and other industrial fields.
| Grade | Chemical Nominal Composition(wt%) |
| Alloy | C | Si | Cr | Ni | Mn | Mo | Cu | W | V | Fe |
| 316L | | | 16.0-18.0 | 10.0-14.0 | | 2.0-3.0 | - | - | - | Bal. |
| 304L | | | 18.0-20.0 | 8.0-12.0 | | - | - | - | - | Bal. |
| 310S | | | 24.0-26.0 | 19.0-22.0 | | - | - | - | - | Bal. |
| 17-4PH | | | 15.0-17.5 | 3.0~5.0 | | - | 3.00-5.00 | - | - | Bal. |
| 15-5PH | | | 14.0-15.5 | 3.5~5.5 | | - | 2.5~4.5 | - | - | Bal. |
| 4340 | 0.38-0.43 | 0.15-0.35 | 0.7-0.9 | 1.65-2.00 | 0.6-0.8 | 0.2-0.3 | - | - | - | Bal. |
| S136 | 0.20-0.45 | 0.8-1.0 | 12.0-14.0 | - | | - | - | - | 0.15-0.40 | Bal. |
| D2 | 1.40-1.60 | | 11.0-13.0 | - | | 0.8-1.2 | - | - | 0.2-0.5 | Bal. |
| H11 | 0.32-0.45 | 0.6-1 | 4.7-5.2 | - | 0.2-0.5 | 0.8-1.2 | - | - | 0.2-0.6 | Bal. |
| H13 | 0.32-0.45 | 0.8-1.2 | 4.75-5.5 | - | 0.2-0.5 | 1.1-1.5 | - | - | 0.8-1.2 | Bal. |
| M2 | 0.78-0.88 | 0.2-0.45 | 3.75-4.5 | - | 0.15-0.4 | 4.5-5.5 | - | 5.5-6.75 | 1.75-2.2 | Bal. |
| M4 | 1.25-1.40 | 0.2-0.45 | 3.75-4.5 | - | 0.15-0.4 | 4.5-5.5 | - | 5.25-6.5 | 3.75-4.5 | Bal. |
| T15 | 1.4-1.6 | 0.15-0.4 | 3.75-5.0 | - | 0.15-0.4 | - | - | 11.75-13 | 4.5-5.25 | Bal. |
| 30CrMnSiA | 0.28-0.34 | 0.9-1.2 | 0.8-1.1 | - | 0.8-1.1 | - | - | - | - | Bal. |
| SAE-1524 | 0.18-0.25 | - | - | - | 1.30-1.65 | - | - | - | - | Bal. |
| 4605 | 0.4-0.6 | | - | 1.5-2.5 | - | 0.2-0.5 | - | - | - | Bal. |
| 8620 | 0.18-0.23 | 0.15-0.35 | 0.4-0.6 | 0.4-0.7 | 0.7-0.9 | 0.15-0.25 | - | - | - | Bal. |
Powder specification:
| Particle Size | Tapping Density | Particle Size Distribution(μm) |
| | (g/cm³) | D10 | D50 | D90 |
| D50:12um | ＞4.8 | 3.6- 5.0 | 11.5-13.5 | 22-26 |
| D50:11um | ＞4.8 | 3.0- 4.5 | 10.5-11.5 | 19-23 |
Factory equipment
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FAQ
1. What types of stainless steel powders are used in 3D printing?
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Common grades include 316L (excellent corrosion resistance), 17-4 PH (high strength and hardness), 304L (general-purpose use), and 420 (wear resistance). Each grade has specific properties suited for different applications.
2. What is the typical particle size for stainless steel powders in 3D printing?
3. Can stainless steel powders be reused?
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Yes, unused powder can often be recycled by sieving and blending with fresh powder. However, excessive reuse can degrade powder quality, so regular testing is recommended.
4. What safety precautions should be taken when handling stainless steel powders?
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Avoid inhalation or skin contact by using gloves, masks, and protective clothing.
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Store powders in a dry, airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.
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Handle powders in a well-ventilated area or under inert gas to minimize explosion risks.
