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A Review of Optimization of Additively Manufactured 316/316L Stainless Steel Process Parameters, Post-Processing
Usman Aziz1,2, Marion McAfee1,3, Ioannis Manolakis2,4
1I-Form, the Research Ireland Centre for Advanced Manufacturing, Atlantic Technological University, F91 YW50 Sligo, Ireland.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 27, 2025
Summary
Additive manufacturing (AM) of 316/316L stainless steel faces challenges like defects and surface roughness. Optimizing process parameters and post-processing is key to improving component reliability for industrial use.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Metallurgy
Background:
- Additive manufacturing (AM) offers advanced capabilities for producing 316/316L stainless steel components with complex geometries and enhanced properties.
- Widespread adoption is hindered by process-related defects including residual stresses, porosity, anisotropy, and surface roughness in techniques like Directed Energy Deposition (DED), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), and Electron Beam Melting (EBM).
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review AM techniques (DED, SLM, EBM) for 316/316L stainless steel.
- To examine the impact of manufacturing parameters on microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and defect formation.
- To highlight defect mitigation strategies and effective post-processing treatments.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of SLM, DED, and EBM processes for 316/316L stainless steel.
- Investigation of key manufacturing parameters: laser power, energy density, scanning strategy, layer thickness, build orientation, and preheating.
- Evaluation of post-processing techniques like heat treatment and Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP).
Main Results:
- SLM provides high precision and refined microstructures but is prone to residual stress and porosity.
- DED offers flexibility for large parts but faces challenges in surface finish and consistent mechanical properties.
- EBM reduces residual stresses via high preheating (700-850 °C) and vacuum but has limitations in resolution and cost-effectiveness.
- Post-processing methods significantly enhance structural integrity by reducing defects and improving mechanical properties.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing AM process parameters and employing effective post-processing treatments are crucial for mitigating defects in 316/316L stainless steel.
- Standardization and real-time monitoring are essential for enhancing the reliability and consistency of AM-produced components.
- Addressing these challenges is vital for advancing AM technologies to meet stringent industrial performance requirements.
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