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| Markforged 316L stainless steel filament |
316L Stainless Steel Enhances FX10 Additive Manufacturing Performance
Markforged has officially added 316L stainless steel filament to its FX10 Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) platform. This addition significantly enhances the machine’s material range and application flexibility. Known for its corrosion resistance and mechanical reliability, 316L is widely used in industries like automotive, petrochemical, food processing, and marine engineering.
This material expansion positions FX10 as a key system for producing durable, high-performance parts in demanding operating environments. 316L stainless steel filament can now be used to manufacture production-grade components with exceptional strength, accuracy, and surface finish.
Industrial Benefits of 316L Stainless Steel in Additive Manufacturing
316L stainless steel is a popular alloy for additive manufacturing due to its machinability, polishability, and resistance to harsh environments. The filament, designed for the FX10 system, includes calibrated sintering profiles to ensure repeatable, high-quality prints.
Markforged confirms that the filament leaves no residual binders after sintering, streamlining post-processing. As a result, manufacturers can meet tight dimensional and surface finish specifications more reliably. This makes the material ideal for tooling, functional prototypes, and end-use parts in regulated or corrosive settings.
FX10 System Integration and Processing Requirements
The Markforged FX10 is a modular machine with the ability to switch between metal and composite print engines. With a 375 x 300 x 300 mm build volume, it is optimized for tooling and fixture production. To print 316L stainless steel, users require the FX10 Metal Kit, along with Markforged's Wash-1 and either Sinter-1 or Sinter-2 sintering systems.
Therefore, users can expect a complete end-to-end workflow that supports in-house metal part production without the complexity of traditional powder-bed fusion systems. This approach minimizes handling risks and reduces operator training requirements.
ScrapInsight Commentary
Markforged’s addition of 316L stainless steel filament strengthens its FX10 platform's appeal in high-value sectors. This move supports localized, on-demand manufacturing and could shift procurement strategies in corrosion-sensitive industries. In the scrap market, wider use of 316L may marginally increase demand for high-grade stainless recoverables.
