New ASTM Standard Supports 3D Printing of Stainless Steel Alloys

A new ASTM International standard will help manufacturers and buyers who want to use 3D-printed stainless steel alloys, which can be made more quickly than through traditional methods. This new specification describes chemical and mechanical requirements—as well as other properties—of additively manufactured parts made from 316L (UNS 31603), which is a widely used grade of stainless steel.
 
“Among the companies that will find the standard most useful are manufacturers willing to replace cast or wrought 316L parts and components, especially those with complex geometries, high inventory costs, or long lead times,” said ASTM member Dr. Amir Farzadfar, materials process engineer for additive manufacturing at Corning Inc. “Also, regulatory bodies such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers will benefit, since the availability of this standard is the first step toward the ASME adoption process of additively manufactured parts.”
 
The standard (soon to be published as F3184M, Specification for Additive Manufacturing Stainless Steel Alloy (UNS S31603) with Powder Bed Fusion) was developed by ASTM International’s committee on additive manufacturing technologies (F42).
 
ASTM International also that it has hired its first director of additive manufacturing programs, Mohsen Seifi, to help support standards development activities and relationships in this fast-growing industry.
 
More than 12,000 ASTM standards operate globally. Defined and set by ASTM International, they improve the lives of millions every day. Combined with innovative business services, they enhance performance and help everyone have confidence in the things they buy and use. The organization is based in West Conshohocken, Pa.