Stainless steel, duplex and super duplex wire feedstock are commonly used in the Wire Additive Manufacturing (WAM®) processes, with each material presenting its own unique application and material properties.
Super Duplex stainless steel wire feedstock used in WAM® typically consists of iron (Fe) along with a significant amount of chromium (Cr) and other alloying elements such as nickel (Ni) and molybdenum (Mo). These particular elements impart excellent corrosion resistance, high-temperature strength, and mechanical properties to metal 3D printed parts. For Aerospace and Maritime goods, stainless steel is generally suitable for applications requiring corrosion resistance, high strength, and good aesthetic appearance.
Duplex, on the other hand, consists of a higher amount of alloying elements like chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), molybdenum (Mo), and sometimes nitrogen (N). This composition provides superior pitting corrosion resistance, as well as high strength, excellent resistance to stress corrosion cracking. It is more suitable for aggressive environments often experienced in Offshore Oil & Gas, Chemical Processing, and even Desalination plants.
Duplex and Super Duplex feature both ferritic and austenitic phases within the metallurgic structure. Stainless steel on the other hand will be ferritic (magnetic), austenitic (non-magnetic) or martensitic, with each classification featuring its own unique microstructure. Stainless steels can be used within Maritime, Defence, Aerospace and Heavy Industries where corrosion resistance, strength and ability to withstand temperature extremes is important.
