- Stock: In Stock
- Model: 17‑4PH
- Weight Brutto: 6.00kg
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FastForm 17-4PH: Steel Power in Every Microsphere
FastForm 17-4PH metal powder (15-53 µm) is a material for those who value the ideal balance between strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of processing. It is the foundation for creating aerospace components, medical instruments, and complex tooling that will not fail. Let's look at why this specific powder should be in your 3D printer's chamber.
What Makes FastForm 17-4PH Powder Special?
17-4PH grade stainless steel (also known as AISI 630) is a chromium-copper steel with a martensitic structure, strengthened by precipitation hardening. However, in additive manufacturing, not only the chemical composition is important, but also the physics of the particle itself.
Spherical Shape — The Key to Success
FastForm powder is produced using the gas atomization method. As a result, we obtain particles of almost ideal spherical shape. Why is this important? It's simple: imagine trying to pour irregular stones or perfectly smooth bearing balls into a glass. The balls flow smoothly.
In 3D printing, this ensures:
- High fluidity: the powder is evenly distributed by the recoater without forming voids.
- High tap density: this directly affects the absence of pores in the finished part.
15-53 µm Fraction: Precision in Details
The particle range from 15 to 53 microns is optimal for most selective laser melting (SLM/DMLS) systems. The fine fraction guarantees surface smoothness (low roughness), while larger particles prevent excessive dusting and sintering "in the cloud."
Technical Specifications of FastForm 17-4PH
- Chemical composition: Fe (base), Cr (15-17.5%), Ni (3-5%), Cu (3-5%), Nb+Ta (0.15-0.45%)
- Particle size: 15–53 µm
- Particle shape: spherical (gas atomization)
- Flowability (Hall Flowmeter): < 30 s / 50 g
- Tap density: ≥ 4.0 g/cm³
- Tensile strength (after heat treatment): up to 1310 MPa
- Hardness (HRC): 40–45
Advantages of Using FastForm 17-4PH
Ease of post-processing. 17-4PH steel is a true dream. In the "as-printed" state, it is ductile enough to be easily milled or ground. However, after heat treatment (aging), it gains its true hardness.
Corrosion resistance. If your part will operate in an aggressive environment, 17-4PH will perform better than conventional martensitic steels. It is resistant to moisture and many chemicals, which is critical for medicine and chemistry.
Dimensional stability. During sintering, this powder provides minimal and predictable shrinkage. This allows for printing complex geometric shapes with thin walls and internal channels.
Benefits for the User of Powder from a Reliable Manufacturer
- Minimum downtime. The risk of the recoater blade or roller "jamming" tends to zero.
- Material savings. The powder has a high degree of recyclability after sieving.
- Predictable result. High repeatability: the tenth part will be just as strong as the first one.
Applications of FastForm Metal Powder
- Aerospace industry: brackets, clamps, fuel system elements.
- Medicine and dentistry: manufacturing of surgical instruments and orthopedic devices.
- Mechanical engineering and injection molding: molds, inserts for molds with conformal cooling.
- Oil and gas sector: parts for valves, gate valves, and pumps.
Expert Tips: How to Achieve the Maximum?
To unlock the full potential of FastForm 17-4PH, keep a few nuances in mind. First, always store the powder in a dry place. Metal does not like moisture — a microscopic film of water can lead to spattering during laser exposure. Second, do not neglect heat treatment. It is quenching and aging that turn a blank into a high-tech product.
The powder is supplied in convenient 5 kg airtight canisters, which is optimal for any production areas. You can order high-quality materials for metal 3D printing on the website or by phone.
