As with other 3D printing processes, metal 3D printing offers virtually unrestricted design options with little to no geometric limitations. It also allows for parts to be produced using less metal materials, so they can be lighter without sacrificing durability or strength. The new stainless steel material option is well-suited to several manufacturing sectors, including automotive, and aeronautics, which Materialise expects to be the primary customers to take advantage of their new service.
316L is a low-carbon alloy derivative of Stainless Steel that has corrosion-resistant properties and offers exceptional strength and durability. The material is an ideal option for applications that require strong final parts with a high rate of ductility and good thermal properties. However stainless steel also has several applications in machine-building and tool-making, not to mention food-safe products and medical instruments and implants. It can also be used to manufacture parts for durable prototypes, spare parts, ductwork, and production tools.
With 25 years of experience and a global capacity of more than 130 3D printers, Materialise is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive additive manufacturing service providers and has made significant contributions to the evolution of 3D printing and materials science. As one of the first companies to start offering metal 3D printing services on a large-scale, they have developed extensive expertise in the various processes. They have also developed several cutting-edge metal 3D printing software packages and Build Processors with leading metal OEMs. You can find out more about Materialise Manufacturing services, and all of their offered 3D printing processes and materials here.
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