Description
Overview Of XM-7
XM-7 is a specialized material tailored for the metal 3D-printed shoe mold industry, combining the comprehensive advantages of stainless steel and tool steel. With a particle size range of 15–53 μm, it is optimized for 3D printing processes (e.g., laser powder bed fusion) to ensure high-density builds and fine surface finishes.
Powder Chemical Composition(wt,-%)
| Testing items | Minimum value | Maximum value | |
| Chemical composition
/wt.% |
C | 0.10 | 0.40 |
| Cr | 0.10 | 1.50 | |
| Ni | 0.10 | 2.00 | |
| Al | / | 1.00 | |
| Mo | / | 2.00 | |
| Mn | 0.10 | 1.50 | |
| Si | / | 2.00 | |
| Fe | Bal. | Bal. | |
Physical Properties
|
Size |
Particle size distribution |
Bulk density |
Tap density |
||
| D10(μm) | D50(μm) | D90(μm) | |||
| 15-53μm | 17-22 | 32-38 | 54-60 | ≥4.2g/cm³ | ≥4.6g/cm³ |
Mechanical Properties
| HRC
|
Tensile strength
(Ob/Mpa) |
Yield strength
(Opo.2/Mpa) |
Elongation at break
(δ5/%) |
| 23-26 | ≥1000 | ≥900 | ≥6 |
Key Advancements Over 316L Stainless Steel Powder
While conventional 316L stainless steel powder faces limitations such as low hardness, non-plateable surfaces, and incompatibility with texturing processes, XM-7 addresses these challenges through advanced process improvements, offering:
● Electroplating compatibility for enhanced surface durability and aesthetics.
● Surface texturing (e.g., etching) to create intricate patterns on molds.
● Electrolytic deburring capability for precision post-processing.
Optimized Performance
● Balanced mechanical properties: Retains stainless steel’s corrosion resistance while achieving tool steel-level hardness (post-heat treatment).
● Process stability: Spherical particle morphology ensures consistent flowability and minimal porosity in printed parts.
● Industry-specific design: Ideal for high-wear shoe molds requiring complex geometries and long-term durability.
Primary Applications
1. Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
● Used in laser melting or electron beam melting processes to create complex geometries for aerospace components (e.g., turbine blades, rocket nozzles) and medical implants, offering high precision and reduced material waste.
2. High-Temperature Engineering
● Ideal for applications in jet engines, industrial reactors, or exhaust systems due to its resistance to oxidation and creep at elevated temperatures (up to 1,200°C).
3. Lightweight Structural Components
● Fabricated into automotive or aerospace parts (e.g., brackets, bearings) to achieve weight reduction without compromising structural integrity.
4. Tooling and Molding
● Employed in injection molds or cutting tools for enhanced wear resistance and extended service life in high-stress environments.
5. Surface Treatment Compatibility
XM-7 powder supports advanced surface treatments like electrolytic finishing and electroplating, enabling applications in aesthetics-sensitive industries (e.g., jewelry molds) and environments requiring enhanced friction resistance.
