SS316, also known as 316 stainless steel, is a corrosion-resistant and high-strength material composed of approximately 16-18% chromium (Cr), 10-14% nickel (Ni), and 2-3% molybdenum (Mo). It is widely used in various industries such as marine, aerospace, chemical, petrochemical, as well as in architectural and structural applications. SS316 exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, and good heat resistance, making it suitable for applications involving corrosive environments and elevated temperatures. It has an austenitic crystal structure, is non-magnetic, and offers good formability and weldability, making it versatile for different manufacturing processes. Additionally, SS316 is commonly used in food processing, pharmaceutical, and medical industries due to its hygienic and sanitary properties.

Properties and Characteristics

1. Excellent Corrosion Resistance: SS 316 exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for applications where the printed parts may be exposed to harsh environments, such as marine or aerospace applications.
2. High Strength and Durability: SS 316 has high tensile strength and good toughness, making it suitable for producing functional parts that require mechanical strength and durability.
3. Heat Resistance: SS 316 has good heat resistance, allowing printed parts to withstand high temperatures without deformation or loss of mechanical properties.
4. Biocompatibility: SS 316 is biocompatible, making it suitable for medical and dental applications, such as implants or surgical instruments.
5. Good Printability: SS 316 is known to have good printability in metal 3D printing processes such as selective laser melting (SLM) and electron beam melting (EBM), allowing for the production of complex geometries with good dimensional accuracy.
6. Excellent Surface Finish: SS 316 typically exhibits a smooth surface finish after 3D printing, reducing the need for post-processing or finishing operations.
7. Material Properties Control: SS 316 allows for precise control of material properties during the 3D printing process, such as density, porosity, and mechanical properties, through parameter optimization and heat treatment, allowing for tailored properties for specific applications.
8. Wide Range of Applications: SS 316 is widely used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer goods, making it suitable for a wide range of 3D printing applications where metal parts with high strength and corrosion resistance are required.
9. Recyclability: SS 316 is a recyclable material, making it a more sustainable option for metal 3D printing compared to some other materials.
10. Material Certifications: SS 316 is a well-established material with standardized material certifications, such as ASTM F138 and ISO 5832, ensuring consistent material quality and performance in 3D printing applications.