316L (1.4404) steel powder is an austenitic iron-based stainless steel powder containing chromium, nickel and molybdenum. The material combines good corrosion resistance with high ductility, toughness and good weldability. It therefore offers a wide range of possibilities for additive manufacturing and other powder metallurgy processes.
NMD Metalpowders offers 316L powder in a range of particle sizes. The appropriate powder grade depends on the manufacturing system used, the component geometry and the required material properties.
Technical features and advantages
- Low-carbon version: The „L“ stands for a low carbon content. This reduces susceptibility to intergranular corrosion after welding.
- Molybdenum-containing alloy: Molybdenum improves resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion compared with similar molybdenum-free stainless steels.
- High ductility and toughness: The material offers good formability and is also of interest for suitable low-temperature applications.
- Good weldability: Supports processing in fusion-based manufacturing and joining processes.
- Various grain sizes: They enable the process to be tailored to different requirements regarding powder application, flow properties and processing.
Corrosion resistance of 316L stainless steel
316L is used for numerous applications with increased requirements for corrosion resistance. Actual resistance depends, amongst other things, on the medium, its concentration, the temperature and the surface condition. Particular attention must be paid to the potential for pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in chloride-containing media and seawater. Appropriate design and surface treatment help to ensure the resistance of the finished component.
316L steel powder in additive manufacturing
316L is one of the established stainless steel grades used for additive manufacturing using metal powders. Suitable powder grades enable complex geometries, internal channels and custom-designed functional components. This makes the material an attractive option for prototypes, small-batch production and industrial components.
To ensure reproducible results, the particle size distribution, particle shape and chemical composition are tailored to the plant. The properties of the components also depend on process parameters, orientation during fabrication and post-treatment.
Other areas of application
Powder metallurgy and metal injection moulding
In addition to 3D printing, suitable grades of 316L powder are used for Sintered moulded parts and the Metal Injection Moulding (MIM) used. In this process, the powder, any binders used and the sintering process must be jointly optimised to achieve the desired component density and dimensional accuracy.
Chemical Industry and Plant Engineering
In plant engineering and in the Machine and tool construction 316L is of interest for functional components subject to corrosion. Powder-based processes, for example, open up possibilities for complex housings, flow components and bespoke components.
Food and drink industry
316L is used for components where corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning are required. For components manufactured using powder-based processes, particular attention must be paid to surface quality, component density and hygienic design. The requirements for the relevant food contact must be met.
Medical technology
316L stainless steel is also used in medical applications. However, the suitability of a specific powder grade and the component manufactured from it must be demonstrated on a case-by-case basis. For implants, the required material specification, the qualified manufacturing process and the necessary documentation are particularly crucial.
Enquire about 316L steel powder from NMD Metalpowders
316L steel powder provides a versatile basis for corrosion-resistant industrial components. NMD Metalpowders combines many years’ experience in the metal powder industry with an international network of suppliers. We can advise you on selecting the right powder grade and assist with professional procurement in line with your technical specifications and required quantities.
Enquire about 316L steel powder now and get personalised advice.
