Complex brackets and integrated structures
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
AIHFABS MATERIAL GUIDE
Metal 3D Printing Materials
Select metal additive materials around geometry, service conditions and the complete finishing route.
Metal printing can produce geometries that are difficult to machine as one piece, including internal passages and integrated structures. Choosing an alloy is only the start: support removal, heat treatment, machining and inspection define how the finished part will be accepted.
START WITH THE APPLICATION
Where this material family fits
Use the application to shortlist a grade, then confirm the exact requirements against the part design and operating conditions.
Flow components and internal channels
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
Prototype metal parts and specialist tooling
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
DESIGN & MANUFACTURING
What to review before selecting a grade
- State the exact alloy and required material condition. A printed alloy and a wrought stock grade should not be substituted on name alone.
- Mark bearing seats, threads, sealing faces and other interfaces that require machining after printing.
- Plan support and powder removal access. Agree on inspection and documentation before releasing a critical application.
COMPARE THE AVAILABLE GRADES
Explore individual materials
SLM
Aluminum Alloy AlSi10Mg
The printed part of Aluminum AlSi10Mg has a high strength-to-weight ratio and good thermal properties and is ideal for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications such as turbine blades, engine blocks, enclosures, and jigs/fixtures.
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SLM
Aluminum Alloy 6061
The printed part of Aluminum 6061 has excellent weldability, corrosion resistance and balanced mechanical properties and is ideal for structural components, automotive parts, marine hardware, and aerospace applications requiring lightweight durability.
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SLM
Stainless Steel 316L
The printed part of 316L Stainless Steel has exceptional corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and mechanical strength and is ideal for medical implants, marine hardware, chemical processing equipment, and food-grade applications.
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SLM
Stainless Steel 17-4PH
The printed part of 17-4 PH stainless steel has high strength, good corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties at high temperatures and is ideal for valves and fittings, gas turbines, mechanical seals, pump shafts, and landing gears.
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SLM
Stainless Steel 18Ni300
The printed part of 18Ni300 maraging steel has high tensile strength, excellent toughness, and good machinability, making it ideal for applications such as landing gears, rocket motor cases, shafts, bearings, load cells, and injection molds.
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SLM
Inconel 718
The printed part of Inconel 718 has outstanding high-temperature strength, excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance, and exceptional durability under extreme conditions, making it ideal for aerospace components, turbine engines, and other high-performance industrial applications.
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SLM
Titanium Alloy Ti₆Al₄V
The printed part of Titanium Ti64 has a high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent corrosion resistance and good high-temperature performance and is ideal for turbine blades, engine parts, implants, surgical instruments, exhaust systems, and suspension parts.
View material details →MATERIAL QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Are printed metal parts ready for assembly straight from the machine?
Some applications need secondary machining, heat treatment or surface finishing. Define the delivered condition and critical interfaces in the quotation.
Can I replace a CNC part with a printed version?
Review material equivalence, load paths, surface condition and inspection requirements first. A matching shape alone does not establish equivalent performance.
What files are needed for a metal printing quote?
Send CAD, a drawing identifying critical dimensions, alloy requirements, quantity and intended use. Include any heat treatment and inspection requirements.
FROM THE AIHFABS BLOG
Recommended reading for material selection
Metal 3D Printing: From SLM Technology to High-Strength Parts
In the world of advanced manufacturing, Metal 3D Printing is revolutionizing how we build everything from aerospace components to medical implants. But the journey from a digital f
Read article →SLM Supplier Qualification for Functional Metal Parts: An Evidence-Based Procurement Checklist
Evaluate SLM suppliers with an evidence-based checklist covering material traceability, process capability, post-processing, inspection, and procurement decisions for functional me
Read article →SLA vs Other Manufacturing Processes: How to Choose
Compare SLA with DLP, LCD, FDM, SLS, MJF, SLM, and CNC machining. Shortlist processes by material, geometry, finish, cost, and your part's intended use.
Read article →Compare other material families
Choose a material around your part
Upload CAD for a quote, or share the complete requirements for a material and manufacturing review.
