Sintered, FDM printed stainless steel is used for strong and functional parts.
Material Details
Ultrafuse 316L filament is an industrial-grade metal filament designed for professional applications. Developed by BASF, it consists of 90% stainless steel powder blended with a 10% polymer binder, enabling it to be used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers. This material offers a cost-effective solution for metal 3D printing, combining impressive mechanical properties with a relatively low production cost.
During the printing process, the filament produces a "green state" part, which means it contains the metal powder held together by the polymer binder. To achieve a solid, dense part, the printed object must undergo a debinding process to remove the polymer binder. After debinding, the part is relatively porous and requires a subsequent sintering process to attain the desired density and strength. However, the sintered part is functional and ready for use.
Additional post-processing steps can be performed to enhance the surface quality and achieve specific requirements. These post-processing options include polishing, milling, heat-treatment, and coating, allowing for customization and refinement of the printed parts.
Ultrafuse 316L filament offers similar tensile strength compared to steel printed using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) techniques, but with lower yield strength. This makes it a viable alternative for various applications where cost-efficiency and mechanical performance are crucial factors.
Technical Properties
The technical properties of Ultrafuse 316L filament are as follows:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 521 - 561 MPa |
| Tensile Elongation | 36 - 53% |
These values represent the material's strength and its ability to stretch under tension, providing an indication of its mechanical behavior.
Please note that the provided technical properties are approximate ranges and may vary depending on specific printing parameters and post-processing procedures. Referring to the manufacturer's documentation and guidelines is recommended for precise and up-to-date technical specifications for Ultrafuse 316L filament.