Stainless Steel 316L Cast Carbonyl Iron Powder Austenitic Alloy Corrosion Resistant
Stainless Steel 316L Powder: The ultimate austenitic alloy for corrosion-resistant 3D printing applications across aerospace, medical, automotive, and marine industries.
About Stainless Steel 316L Powder
Stainless Steel 316L Powder is a fine particulate material composed of an austenitic stainless steel alloy, characterized by high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. The "L" designation indicates low carbon content (≤0.03%), minimizing carbide precipitation during welding or heat treatment.
Composition and Properties
- Iron (Fe): Balance
- Chromium (Cr): 16-18% for corrosion resistance
- Nickel (Ni): 10-14% as an austenite stabilizer
- Molybdenum (Mo): 2-3% for enhanced pitting and crevice corrosion resistance
- Carbon (C): ≤0.03% for reduced carbide precipitation
Key material properties:
- Exceptional resistance to acids, alkalis, salts, and organic chemicals
- High yield and tensile strength with fine grain structure
- Suitable for continuous service up to ~900°C
- Non-toxic and biocompatible for medical applications
Industry Applications
Aerospace: Turbine blades, structural brackets (high strength-to-weight ratio)
Medical: Implants, spinal rods, dental fixtures (biocompatibility)
Automotive: Fasteners, sensors, chassis parts (durability)
Marine: Shafts, propellers, fittings (saltwater resistance)
Material Advantages
- 25-30% better corrosion resistance than standard grades
- Proven biocompatibility for medical use
- Tensile strength exceeding cast/wrought 316L properties
- High fatigue limit for extended component lifespan
- Cost-effective compared to exotic alloys
Material Comparison
| Property |
Iron-Based Alloy Powders |
Stainless Steel (316L) |
Nickel Alloys (Inconel 625) |
Titanium (Ti-6Al-4V) |
| Density (g/cm³) |
7.4-7.9 |
7.9 |
8.4 |
4.4 |
| Hardness (HRC) |
20-65 |
25-35 |
20-40 |
36-40 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) |
300-1,500+ |
500-700 |
900-1,200 |
900-1,100 |
| Corrosion Resistance |
Moderate |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Excellent |
| Max Operating Temp. (°C) |
500-1,200 |
800 |
1,000+ |
600 |
| Cost (vs. Pure Fe = 1x) |
1x-5x |
3x-5x |
10x-20x |
20x-30x |
Powder Specifications
| Particle Size |
Tapping Density (g/cm³) |
D10 (μm) |
D50 (μm) |
D90 (μm) |
| D50:12μm |
>4.8 |
3.6-5.0 |
11.5-13.5 |
22-26 |
| D50:11μm |
>4.8 |
3.0-4.5 |
10.5-11.5 |
19-23 |
Production Equipment
Global Distribution
Shipments to Poland and Germany:
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of stainless steel powders are used in 3D printing?
- 316L (excellent corrosion resistance)
- 17-4 PH (high strength and hardness)
- 304L (general-purpose use)
- 420 (wear resistance)
What is the typical particle size for stainless steel powders in 3D printing?
The particle size typically ranges from 15 to 45 micrometers (µm). Spherical particles are preferred for better flowability and packing density.
Can stainless steel powders be reused?
Yes, unused powder can often be recycled by sieving and blending with fresh powder. Regular testing is recommended as excessive reuse can degrade powder quality.
What safety precautions should be taken when handling stainless steel powders?
- Use gloves, masks, and protective clothing
- Store in dry, airtight containers
- Handle in well-ventilated areas or under inert gas