FDM · Filaments · Metal composite
Stainless Steel filament
Metal parts with FDM: 316L stainless steel.
What is Stainless Steel?
Ultrafuse® 316L is a stainless steel composite filament developed by BASF. Grade 316L is preferred in industrial applications and prototyping for its durability, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. It makes it possible to produce complex metal parts with FDM.
Debinding and sintering are required after printing. TAİ Robotik takes on the 3D printing stage of the work.
- Metal
- Chemical resistant
- High strength
Real metal parts
BASF Ultrafuse® 316L opens the way to producing stainless steel parts with FDM technology.
Corrosion resistance
Grade 316L stainless steel, known for its durability and corrosion resistance.
Post-processing required
Debinding and sintering follow printing. TAİ Robotik takes on the printing stage.
Applications
A mold-free solution for spare parts, custom metal parts and metal prototyping.
Technical data
Typical values compiled from common manufacturer datasheets; they vary by brand and grade.
| Filament | BASF Ultrafuse® 316L (metal + binder) |
|---|---|
| Density after sintering | ≈ 7.9 g/cm³ (typical) |
| Tensile strength after sintering | ≈ 500 – 560 MPa (typical) |
Design guidelines for Stainless Steel
General guidelines for FDM technology. All design guidelines
- Minimum wall thickness0.8 mm
- Smallest detail0.4 mm (nozzle diameter)
- Clearance for moving parts0.3 – 0.6 mm
- Text and logosEmbossed ≥ 0.6 mm, engraved ≥ 0.8 mm
- Minimum hole diameterØ 2 mm
- Unsupported overhang angle≥ 45° from horizontal; flatter surfaces need support
Applications
- Industrial design
- Spare part production
- Custom metal parts
- Metal prototyping
Advantages
- Real stainless steel parts with FDM
- Mold-free metal prototypes and spare parts
- 316L-grade corrosion resistance
Limitations
- Requires debinding and sintering
- ~16–20% shrinkage during sintering; allowance must be designed in
Comparison
Stainless Steel and alternatives
| Property | Stainless Steel | Stainless steel 316L | Stainless steel 304 | PA-CF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.9 g/cm³ | 7.9 g/cm³ | 8 g/cm³ | 1.2 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 530 MPa | 600 MPa | 600 MPa | 85 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 50 % | 38 % | 40 % | 3 % |
| Modulus (stiffness) | 190 GPa | 190 GPa | 193 GPa | 6 GPa |
| Heat deflection (0.45 MPa) | — | — | — | 160 °C |
Values are averages of typical ranges; see each material page for details.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions about Stainless Steel
What is Stainless Steel?
Ultrafuse® 316L is a stainless steel composite filament developed by BASF. Grade 316L is preferred in industrial applications and prototyping for its durability, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. It makes it possible to produce complex metal parts with FDM.
Is Stainless Steel heat resistant?
Stainless Steel is a metal; it keeps its strength at much higher temperatures than polymers.
Can Stainless Steel be used outdoors?
Yes. Stainless Steel has good resistance to UV light and weather; it is suitable for outdoor parts.
Which parts are made with Stainless Steel?
Stainless Steel is typically used in applications such as industrial design, spare part production, custom metal parts, metal prototyping.
Which material can be used instead of Stainless Steel?
Depending on the application, Stainless steel 316L, Stainless steel 304, PA-CF can be alternatives. You can see the differences in the comparison tables on the material pages.
Does TAİ Robotik produce with Stainless Steel?
For 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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Tell us your needs for this material or an alternative we can produce.