The additive manufacturing (AM) industry has revolutionized the production of high-precision, wear-resistant components, with material selection playing a pivotal role. XM-7 iron-based powder, developed by Hangrui (Shanghai) Advanced Material Technologies Co., LTD, combines the corrosion resistance of stainless steel with the hardness of tool steel, making it ideal for 3D-printed shoe molds and high-wear industrial parts.
Hangrui is a leading pioneer in advanced metal powders, serving sectors including aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical applications. XM-7 is engineered for laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), ensuring high-density builds, fine surface finishes, and process stability.
This guide covers material properties, microstructure, additive manufacturing process optimization, post-processing techniques, real-world applications, and troubleshooting for XM-7 powders.
Material Properties and Composition
XM-7 combines stainless steel and tool steel characteristics:
| Feature | Specification | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Particle Size | 15–53 μm | Optimized for LPBF, consistent layer deposition |
| Particle Shape | Spherical | Stable flowability, minimal porosity |
| Hardness (Post-Heat Treatment) | Tool steel-level | High wear resistance for molds |
| Corrosion Resistance | Stainless steel-grade | Extended durability under humid/chemical environments |
| Surface Finish Compatibility | Electroplating, etching | Enables customized mold textures |
Mechanical Advantages: XM-7 balances hardness, tensile strength, and corrosion resistance, ideal for components subjected to repetitive mechanical stress.
Microstructure Insights
Matrix Structure: Iron-based γ-phase provides ductility and structural integrity.
Precipitates: Tool steel-like carbides contribute to hardness and wear resistance.
Surface Morphology: Spherical particles improve packing density and uniform energy absorption during laser scanning.
Proper powder handling, LPBF process control, and post-processing are critical for achieving dense, defect-free builds.
Additive Manufacturing Process Optimization
Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) Best Practices
Layer Thickness: 20–40 μm
Laser Power & Scan Speed: Adjust based on part geometry to reduce residual stress
Build Orientation: Optimize support structures to minimize overhangs
Powder Handling: Keep in dry, inert conditions to prevent oxidation
Post-Processing Techniques
Heat Treatment: Achieves tool steel-level hardness while maintaining corrosion resistance
Electroplating: Increases surface wear resistance and visual finish
Etching / Texturing: Enables precise patterns for molds
Electrolytic Deburring: Smooths complex geometries
Heat Treatment Recommendation:
Solution: 620℃ ±10℃ / 8h / AC
Optional: HIP 980–1060℃ / 1h AC + Aging 720℃ ±10℃ / 8h FC
Performance Optimization Table
| Parameter | Effect | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Particle Size | Layer uniformity | 15–53 μm |
| Powder Morphology | Flowability and porosity | Spherical |
| Laser Scan Strategy | Density and surface quality | Adjust scan speed & power |
| Heat Treatment | Hardness and mechanical stability | Follow recommended protocol |
| Surface Post-Processing | Wear resistance & aesthetic | Electroplating or etching |
Real-World Applications
1. Shoe Mold Industry
High-wear molds for soles and intricate designs
Complex geometries achievable with LPBF
Long-term durability and corrosion resistance
2. Automotive Tooling
Dies, punches, and jigs requiring wear resistance
Precision tolerances maintained with post-processing
3. Energy and Industrial Applications
High-performance fixtures or small-scale molds
Tolerant to repeated mechanical loading and environmental exposure
4. Medical Applications
Surgical guides and orthopedic implants
Fine surface finish ensures biocompatibility and precision
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Q1: Can XM-7 be used in other LPBF applications besides shoe molds?
A1: Yes, suitable for automotive, energy, and medical components requiring wear resistance.
Q2: What is the recommended particle size for LPBF?
A2: 15–53 μm for optimal layer deposition and surface finish.
Q3: How to handle XM-7 powders to prevent oxidation?
A3: Store in dry, inert environments and avoid prolonged exposure to humidity.
Q4: What post-processing methods are compatible with XM-7?
A4: Electroplating, surface etching, and electrolytic deburring.
Q5: How to achieve tool steel-level hardness?
A5: Apply proper heat treatment protocols: solution heat treatment and optional HIP followed by aging.
Conclusion
XM-7 iron-based powders from Hangrui are a high-performance, wear-resistant, and versatile solution for industrial 3D printing applications. Combining stainless steel corrosion resistance with tool steel hardness, XM-7 ensures process stability, dense builds, and intricate surface finishes.
By following additive manufacturing best practices, heat treatment guidelines, and post-processing techniques, engineers can produce durable, high-strength, and precision components for shoe molds, automotive tooling, energy applications, and medical devices.
Hangrui’s XM-7 powders exemplify the forefront of advanced material innovation, delivering reliability and performance across high-demand industrial sectors.
www.powdmax.com
Hangrui (Shanghai) Advanced Material Technologies Co., LTD
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