| Model Number: | 304 |
Our 304 stainless steel powder (8Ni grade) is engineered for demanding powder metallurgy applications, particularly Metal Injection Molding (MIM). With precisely controlled chemistry (Cr 18.19%, Ni 8.06%) and a balanced particle size distribution (D10=3.0μm, D50=8.5μm, D90=20.0μm), this powder ensures consistent flowability, high green density (>5.35 g/cm³), and exceptional sintered performance. After sintering at ~1375°C, it achieves a density of ≥7.78 g/cm³, shrinkage ratio of 1.165, and binder burnout rate of 7.4%. The resulting parts deliver robust tensile strength (≥250 MPa), yield strength (≥180 MPa), elongation (≥50%), and hardness (>130 HV), making it ideal for high-reliability industrial components.
| Element | Value |
|---|---|
| Ni (Nickel) | 8.06 |
| Mo (Molybdenum) | 0.032 |
| Cr (Chromium) | 18.19 |
| Si (Silicon) | 0.65 |
| Mn (Manganese) | 0.87 |
| O (Oxygen) | 0.385 |
| C (Carbon) | 0.05 |
| Fe (Iron) | Bal (Balance) |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| D10 | 3.0 |
| D50 | 8.5 |
| D90 | 20.0 |
| Property | Unit | Parameter |
|---|---|---|
| Shrinkage Ratio | - | 1.165 |
| Debinding Rate | % | 7.4 |
| Injection Temperature | °C | 180-205 |
| Sintering Temperature | °C | ~1375 |
| Green Density | g/cm³ | >5.35 |
| Melt Flow Index | g/10min (Load 21.6kg, Temp 190°C) | 4386 |
| Sintered Density | g/cm³ | ≥7.78 |
| Tensile Strength | MPa | ≥500 |
| Yield Strength | MPa | ≥180 |
| Elongation | % | ≥50% |
| Hardness | HV (HRC Convertible) | >130 |
Key Applications & Advantages
1. Metal Injection Molding (MIM)
Optimized particle size distribution ensures high packing density and defect-free green parts.
Low impurity levels (C≤0.05%, O≤0.385%) reduce sintering defects and improve final part consistency.
Shrinkage ratio of 1.165 enables precise dimensional control for complex geometries.
2. Additive Manufacturing (Binder Jetting / DED)
Excellent flow characteristics (MFI 4386 g/10min at 190°C/21.6kg) support smooth layer spreading and powder recoating.
High sintered density and elongation (>50%) allow for post-processing like heat treatment or surface finishing.
3. Powder Metallurgy & Press-and-Sinter
Achieves >7.78 g/cm³ sintered density, close to wrought 304 properties.
Superior corrosion resistance from balanced Cr/Ni content (18.19% Cr, 8.06% Ni).
Advantages Overview
Consistent Mechanical Performance: Guaranteed tensile strength ≥250 MPa and yield ≥180 MPa meet ISO/ASTM standards for 304 stainless steel.
Process Stability: Stable debinding rate (7.4%) and narrow sintering window reduce scrap rates in mass production.
Fine Microstructure Control: D50=8.5μm with moderate fines (D10=3.0μm) enhances sintering activity while maintaining good handling properties.
Versatile Part Geometry: Supports thin walls, undercuts, and internal channels without secondary machining.