Rapid Prototyping for Stainless Steel 316

Rapid prototyping in 316 stainless is used when corrosion testing, biocompatibility validation, or marine environment simulation requires the exact production material.

Recommended Machining Parameters

ParameterValue
Achievable Tolerances±0.02 mm (prototype standard)
Surface FinishRa 1.6-3.2 μm
Cutting Speed40-80 m/min
Feed Rate0.05-0.10 mm/tooth
Tooling RecommendationsPremium carbide with AlTiN coating.

Expert Machining Tips

1

Specify 316L for medical device prototypes

2

Allow extra lead time for difficult machining

3

Consider 304 for initial form/fit prototypes to save cost

Common Parts Made

Marine corrosion test articles

Medical device prototypes

Chemical resistance validation parts

Machining Challenges

  • Highest cost stainless to prototype
  • Longest lead time among common materials
  • Consider alternative for non-critical prototypes

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