Metal LPBF · Metal powders · Metal
17-4 PH stainless steel
A stainless steel that reaches very high strength and hardness with heat treatment.
What is 17-4 PH stainless steel?
17-4 PH is a martensitic stainless steel that gains high strength and hardness through precipitation hardening heat treatment. It is used in tooling, mold components and highly loaded mechanical parts.
- Metal
- High strength
- Heat resistant
Technical data
Typical values compiled from common manufacturer datasheets; they vary by brand and grade.
| Density | ≈ 7.8 g/cm³ |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength (H900) | ≈ 1200 – 1350 MPa |
| Elongation at break | ≈ 5 – 12% |
| Hardness (H900) | ≈ 40 – 44 HRC |
Design guidelines for 17-4 PH stainless steel
General guidelines for SLM / DMLS technology. All design guidelines
- Minimum wall thickness0.4 – 1 mm
- Smallest detail0.6 mm
- Clearance for moving parts0.3 mm
- Text and logosEmbossed ≥ 0.5 mm
- Minimum hole diameterØ 1.5 mm
- Unsupported overhang angle≥ 45° from horizontal; flatter surfaces need support
Applications
- Tooling and mold components
- Highly loaded mechanical parts
- Pump and valve bodies
Advantages
- Very high strength
- Can be hardened
Limitations
- Heat treatment required
- Less corrosion resistant than 316L
Comparison
17-4 PH stainless steel and alternatives
| Property | 17-4 PH stainless steel | Stainless steel 316L | Inconel® 718 | Titanium Ti6Al4V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.8 g/cm³ | 7.9 g/cm³ | 8.2 g/cm³ | 4.43 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 1,300 MPa | 600 MPa | 1,350 MPa | 1,000 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 9 % | 38 % | 15 % | 12 % |
| Modulus (stiffness) | 197 GPa | 190 GPa | 200 GPa | 114 GPa |
| Heat deflection (0.45 MPa) | — | — | — | — |
Values are averages of typical ranges; see each material page for details.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions about 17-4 PH stainless steel
What is 17-4 PH stainless steel?
17-4 PH is a martensitic stainless steel that gains high strength and hardness through precipitation hardening heat treatment. It is used in tooling, mold components and highly loaded mechanical parts.
Is 17-4 PH stainless steel heat resistant?
17-4 PH stainless steel is a metal; it keeps its strength at much higher temperatures than polymers.
Can 17-4 PH stainless steel be used outdoors?
Yes. 17-4 PH stainless steel has good resistance to UV light and weather; it is suitable for outdoor parts.
Which parts are made with 17-4 PH stainless steel?
17-4 PH stainless steel is typically used in applications such as tooling and mold components, highly loaded mechanical parts, pump and valve bodies.
Which material can be used instead of 17-4 PH stainless steel?
Depending on the application, Stainless steel 316L, Inconel® 718, Titanium Ti6Al4V can be alternatives. You can see the differences in the comparison tables on the material pages.
Does TAİ Robotik produce with 17-4 PH stainless steel?
For 17-4 PH stainless steel, send us your part's dimensions, quantity and operating conditions; we will determine the best production route and, if needed, an equivalent alternative together.
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