Method 3D-Prints Marine-Grade Stainless Steel

Marine-grade stainless steel is valued for its performance under corrosive environments, and for its high ductility — the ability to bend without breaking under stress. But conventional techniques for strengthening this class of stainless steels typically come at the expense of ductility. A method of 3D printing one of the most common forms of marine grade stainless steel — a low-carbon type called 316L — promises an unparalleled combination of high-strength and high-ductility properties for the ubiquitous alloy.