3D printing with Steel

The steel alloys available for 3D printing must have a low carbon content in order to enhance the welding of the metal powder within the print chamber. Based on the other components and its content, we have stainless steel 316L, martensitic steel 1.2709, and L-40. Each of these possess different properties and are used for different applications.

 

3D printing process with steel

3D printing with steels is done through Selective Laser Melting (SLM). This technology melts 40-micron layers of powder in the case of Martensitic Steel (1.2709), 50-micron layers in the case of Stainless Steel (AISI316L), and 30-micron layers in the case of L-40. The power of the laser used may be 200 W or 400 W. In the case of Martensitic Steel and L-40, once the parts are manufactured, and depending on their final use, they may require heat treatment to increase their hardness.

Types of steel available

Type of steel
Stainless 316L
Martensitic
L-40
Corrosion resistance
Excellent
Average
Very good
Mechanical resistance
676 MPa
1141 MPa - 1806 MPa
1500 MPa - 1650 MPa
Hardness
16 HRC
38 HRC - 54 HRC
46 HRC, 52 HRC, 62 HRC, 74 HRC
Post processing treatment
-
- , Heat treatment
Heat treatment / Heat + Casting treatment / Heat + Nitriding treatment
Technical data sheet

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION OF STAINLESS STEEL 316L

Technical data sheet

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION OF MARAGING STEEL

Technical data sheet

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION OF L-40

Hybrid printing with tooling steel

In Addimen we are specialists in making hybrid products, meaning we add a geometrically simple tooling part to what we 3D print. This hybrid process must be carried out with complete control of all of the processing details (printing and post processing) so as not to produce internal stress within the final hybrid part. Through this hybridization, we are able to reduce production times and the overall costs of the part.

The process step by step

1
3D file

Send us your 3D file ready to print.
If you do not have the file, send us the item and we will create the CAD file.
If you need a design from scratch, our designers will gladly prepare a quote for you.

2
3D Printing

We will create the process file adapted to the technology and materials that will be used to produce your item.
We prepare and condition the printer to guarantee optimum quality.

3
Cleaning and post processing

This step is key when meeting your requirements, and it is one that we are highly specialised in.
The removal of the printing support structures, heat treatments, and surface finishes (blasting, polishing, tooling) are some of the most common post processes.

Discover the technology used in the process

Applications of 3D printed Steel

There are a wide range of uses, from general industry parts (tools and spares), mould inserts for cooling moulds, prototypes, and even personalised items for individuals.

Applications
Prototyped and short runs
Warehouse spares
Plastic and aluminium injection inserts
Petrochemical propellers
Personalised decoration
Personalised accessories

Printing machinery

Used with Steel
 
Selective Laser Melting (SLM) Renishaw AM500S Flex

The Renishaw AM500S Flex is made for industry 4.0 process methods with optical system control and system processes. Its 500 W laser enables exceptional precision for manufacturing components with > 99.9% density, maximum strength and ductility.

Workload

The construction volume is 250 x 250 x 350 mm

Flexibility

The versatility of its design and the possibility of generating new process parameters make this equipment ideal for working with many different materials.

Cotización de forma inmediata
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Other materials

In addition to Steel, we offer 3D printing with metal in the following materials. Take a look and decide which one best suits your needs.

Our offer