When it comes to high-performance materials, AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder is a standout. Known for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, this stainless steel alloy powder is a game-changer in industries like aerospace, automotive, tooling, and additive manufacturing. Whether you’re creating precision components or tackling demanding applications, AISI 440C delivers the kind of performance that engineers and manufacturers love.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder, covering its composition, properties, applications, pricing, and more. By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of why this material is a go-to choice for high-stress and high-performance applications.
Overview of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
AISI 440C is a martensitic stainless steel designed for applications that require high hardness, superior wear resistance, and moderate corrosion resistance. Its spherical powder form, achieved through advanced gas atomization techniques, ensures excellent flowability and packing density, making it ideal for modern manufacturing processes like 3D printing and laser cladding.
This alloy stands out because it maintains its strength and hardness even after heat treatment, which is a property not commonly found in other stainless steels. If you’re looking for a material that can take a beating and still deliver precision, AISI 440C is a strong contender.
Key Features of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
- Exceptional Hardness: One of the hardest stainless steels available after heat treatment.
- Wear Resistance: Highly durable in abrasive environments.
- Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in mildly corrosive environments.
- Spherical Shape: Ensures better flowability and packing density for powder-based manufacturing.
- Versatile Applications: Widely used in aerospace, tooling, and precision manufacturing.
But what makes AISI 440C truly special? Let’s take a closer look at its composition and properties.
Composition and Properties of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
The unique performance of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder lies in its carefully balanced chemical composition. Each element contributes to its impressive mechanical and physical properties, enabling it to excel in demanding applications.
Chemical Composition of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
| Element | Percentage (%) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Provides the base structure of the alloy. |
| Chromium (Cr) | 16.0–18.0 | Enhances corrosion resistance and oxidation resistance. |
| Carbon (C) | 0.95–1.20 | Provides high hardness and wear resistance after heat treatment. |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 1.00 | Improves toughness and machinability. |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 1.00 | Adds strength and enhances oxidation resistance. |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | ≤ 0.75 | Improves corrosion resistance and strength at high temperatures. |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.040 | Controlled to enhance machinability. |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030 | Improves machinability without compromising durability. |
Mechanical and Physical Properties of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
| Property | Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ~7.65 g/cm³ | Ensures a strong and durable structure. |
| Tensile Strength (Annealed) | ~760 MPa | Offers moderate strength in annealed condition. |
| Tensile Strength (Hardened) | ~1,960 MPa | Extremely high strength after heat treatment. |
| Hardness (Annealed) | ~250 HB | Moderate hardness in the soft state. |
| Hardness (Hardened) | ~58–62 HRC | Among the hardest stainless steels available after treatment. |
| Elongation | ~10% | Provides some ductility for machining and forming. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate | Performs well in mildly corrosive environments. |
| Melting Point | ~1,480°C | Suitable for high-temperature applications. |
These properties make AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder one of the most reliable and robust materials for precision and wear-resistant applications.
Applications of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
Thanks to its combination of hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder finds use in a wide range of industries. Let’s explore its most common applications.
Applications of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Components | Used in high-precision parts like bearings and fasteners. |
| Automotive Industry | Ideal for gears, shafts, and other wear-resistant parts. |
| Medical Tools and Devices | Suitable for surgical instruments and cutting tools. |
| Tooling and Dies | Commonly used in molds, punches, and dies due to its hardness. |
| Additive Manufacturing | Perfect for 3D printing high-strength, wear-resistant parts. |
| Industrial Bearings | Widely used in high-load, high-wear applications. |
Whether you’re manufacturing aerospace components or tooling for heavy industries, AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder is your go-to solution.
Specifications, Sizes, and Standards for AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
When selecting a material, it’s critical to ensure it meets your project’s specifications and standards. Here’s a breakdown of the available sizes, grades, and industry standards for AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder.
Specifications and Industry Standards
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Particle Size | 15–45 µm for additive manufacturing; 45–150 µm for powder metallurgy. |
| Purity | ≥99.5% |
| Shape | Spherical |
| Standards | Meets ASTM A276, ASTM A580, and AMS 5630 requirements. |
These specifications are tailored to meet the demands of modern manufacturing and ensure consistent results.
Pricing and Suppliers of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
The cost of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder varies depending on factors like particle size, order volume, and supplier location. Below is an overview of leading suppliers and pricing information.
Suppliers and Pricing for AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
| Supplier | Price Range (Per Kg) | Location | Additional Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Höganäs AB | $80–$130 | Sweden | Custom particle sizes, technical support. |
| Carpenter Additive | $90–$140 | USA | Specialized powders for additive manufacturing. |
| Sandvik Materials Technology | $85–$135 | Global | High-purity powders for industrial applications. |
| GKN Powder Metallurgy | $75–$125 | Global | Tailored solutions for various industries. |
Advantages and Limitations of AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
No material is perfect. While AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder offers numerous benefits, it also has some limitations. Let’s explore both sides.
Advantages
- Exceptional Hardness: Harder than most stainless steels after heat treatment.
- Wear Resistance: Performs well in abrasive and high-load environments.
- Corrosion Resistance: Moderate resistance to oxidation and mild corrosives.
- Wide Applications: Versatile enough for aerospace, medical, and tooling industries.
Limitations
- Brittleness: Can become brittle in hardened states, limiting its use in impact-heavy applications.
- Higher Cost: More expensive than standard stainless steels.
- Specialized Processing Required: Requires precise heat treatment to unlock its full potential.
FAQs About AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is AISI 440C powder used for? | It’s used for high-strength, wear-resistant parts in aerospace, tooling, and medical industries. |
| Why is the spherical shape important? | It improves flowability, packing density, and consistency in manufacturing processes. |
| Is AISI 440C suitable for 3D printing? | Yes, its properties and particle size make it ideal for additive manufacturing. |
| How much does AISI 440C powder cost? | Prices range from $80 to $140 per kilogram, depending on supplier and specifications. |
| Can AISI 440C handle high temperatures? | Yes, but it performs best in applications where wear resistance is critical. |
Conclusion
AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder is a top-tier material that combines hardness, wear resistance, and versatility. Whether you’re creating precision aerospace components, medical tools, or industrial bearings, this alloy brings unparalleled performance to the table. While it may be more expensive and require specialized processing, its benefits far outweigh the drawbacks in high-performance applications.
If you’re considering AISI 440C Spherical Stainless Steel Alloy Powder for your next project, consult with trusted suppliers to ensure you get the right specifications. With its impressive properties and proven reliability, this alloy is shaping the future of advanced manufacturing.