Heat treatment of stainless steels
Heat treatment is important for stainless steels as it enables the adjustment of their mechanical properties, such as hardness, strength, and ductility. It also enhances their corrosion resistance and relieves internal stresses, resulting in improved performance and suitability for various applications.
How heat treatment for stainless steels works
Heat treatment of stainless steels typically involves three main steps: heating, holding at a specific temperature, and cooling. The material is heated to a precise temperature to induce desired transformations in its microstructure. It is then held at that temperature for a specific duration to allow for the desired changes to occur. Finally, the material is cooled at a controlled rate, which determines the final properties of the stainless steel.
The NanoSteel® Company, a specialist in nano-structured steel materials design, announced the expansion of the company’s additive manufacturing (AM) material capabilities to support metal 3D printing of complex high hardness parts and the ability to customise properties layer-by-layer through gradient material design.
The company leveraged its 2014 breakthrough in AM wear materials to print a bearing and impeller using the powder bed fusion process.