The potential use of martensitic materials for tooling applications is usually limited by very elaborate process parameters in the 3D printing process. And even then, the risk of cracking remains an issue that is very challenging.

This problem is addressed by the Printdur HCT material development: it is a corrosion-resistant martensitic tool steel with high hardness, wear and tempering resistance, developed towards the additive processing process.

In the printed initial state, a hardness of 53 HRC is present. Through simple heat treatment steps such as deep cooling or tempering, the hardness can be increased up to 57 HRC.

• Excellent processing properties in the LPBF process
• Very high hardness of 53 HRC in printed condition
• Additional deep-freezing leads to an increase in hardness up to 57 HRC
• Good corrosion resistance, especially against pitting corrosion
• Good mechanical properties
• Significantly reduced safety requirements during processing compared with Ni- and/or Co-alloyed powders

• Universal tool steel powder for 3D printing.
• Suitable for dies and mold inserts in die casting due to high tempering resistance and high hardness
• Plastic injection molding with requirements for corrosion resistance (similar to Formadur® 2083)
• Medical purposes due to lack of Ni and Co contents