Mechanical and Corrosion Performance of Additively Manufactured Stainless Steel 316L

Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies provide innovative design solutions. However, microstructure, defect types, and surface characteristics in AM materials and components differ significantly from those produced by traditional processing methods. Therefore, evaluating the long-term durability of AM materials and components is crucial. SLM offers flexibility in printing conditions that can significantly impact the corrosion resistance of printed parts. 316L stainless steel is commonly used in critical applications requiring mechanical strength and corrosion resistance in biomedical, aerospace, and automotive industries. This study aims to analyze printed parts' mechanical performance and corrosion resistance, emphasizing their ability to withstand general and localized corrosion. To investigate this, Steel 316L samples were printed at a 45-degree angle using SLM and subjected to mechanical testing, followed by analysis in two different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) solution to evaluate their corrosion behavior. Our study found that the mechanical performance of printed stainless-steel parts is more robust and exhibits better properties than those produced by traditional fabrication methods. Furthermore, in investigating the corrosion behavior of AISI 316L specimens, printed at a 45-degree angle were found to be corrosion-resistant due to the formation of a passive film in a 0.9%wt NaCl solution.