17-4PH Stainless Steel Parts | SLM Metal 3D Printing
Project Overview
This project showcases metal components manufactured using SLM (Selective Laser Melting) technology with 17-4PH stainless steel.
The examples include fluid manifolds, valve bodies, hydraulic components and complex internal flow structures that are difficult or impossible to produce using conventional machining methods.
Material Properties
17-4PH stainless steel is a precipitation-hardening martensitic stainless steel widely used for high-strength and corrosion-resistant industrial applications.
The combination of additive manufacturing and 17-4PH material properties enables the production of lightweight, functional, and highly integrated metal components.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | 17-4PH Stainless Steel |
| Manufacturing Process | SLM (Selective Laser Melting) |
| Powder Size | 15–53 μm |
| Powder Shape | Spherical |
| Flowability | 22 s |
| Loose Powder Density | 4.0 g/cm³ |
| Part Density | ≥99% |
| Yield Strength | ≥1100 MPa |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | ≥1050 MPa |
Technology
- SLM Metal 3D Printing
Material
- 17-4PH Stainless Steel
Post Processing
- Support Removal
- CNC Critical Surfaces
- Thread Machining
- Bead Blasting
- Heat Treatment (Optional)
Customer Challenge
The customer required lightweight and corrosion-resistant metal components with complex internal channels and integrated mounting features.
Traditional CNC machining would require multiple setups, assembly operations, and significant material removal, increasing both lead time and manufacturing cost.
Why 17-4PH Stainless Steel
17-4PH is one of the most widely used materials in metal additive manufacturing.
It combines:
- High Strength
- Good Corrosion Resistance
- Excellent Mechanical Properties
- Heat Treatment Capability
- Suitable for Functional Prototypes and End-Use Parts
Typical Applications
- Hydraulic Manifolds
- Fluid Control Components
- Aerospace Parts
- Industrial Equipment
- Automotive Prototypes
- Heat Exchangers
- Functional Metal Assemblies
Complex Internal Channels
SLM technology enables complex internal flow paths and integrated structures that cannot be manufactured efficiently using traditional machining.
Lightweight and Functional Structures
Internal lattice structures reduce weight while maintaining mechanical strength and functional performance.
Threaded and Pressure Components
Functional threads, sealing surfaces and fluid connections can be incorporated directly into the printed design and finished through secondary machining operations.
Benefits of SLM 17-4PH
- Complex Geometry Freedom
- Internal Channels
- Reduced Assembly Count
- Faster Prototype Iteration
- Functional Metal Parts
- Suitable for Low-Volume Production
Project Information
Technology:
SLM Metal 3D Printing
Material:
17-4PH Stainless Steel
Surface Finish:
As Printed / Bead Blasted / CNC Machined
Applications:
Fluid Systems, Hydraulic Components, Industrial Equipment, Aerospace Prototypes