Selective electron beam melting of austenitic stainless steels

Austenitic stainless steels are characterized by their high corrosion resistance, high toughness at cryogenic temperatures, strength at elevated temperatures, and good weldability. Thus, their typical applications are in the food and chemical industry, marine and medical sector. 304L and 316L are among the most common grades. 316L contains more nickel and molybdenum for enhanced resistance to chlorides. In this paper the Selective Electron Beam Melting of 304L and 316L is studied. Specifics of the process and the parameter window based on density are presented. Metallographic investigations reveal grain and melt pool boundaries as well as a sub-grain cellular structure. Mechanical properties are characterized in build direction and perpendicular to it by tensile test. As-built material combines high strength with ductility