Stainless Steel 316L vs. 17-4PH – Choosing the Right MIM Material
316L and 17-4PH are the two most common MIM materials. 316L offers ultimate corrosion resistance for medical and marine use, while 17-4PH provides the high hardness and strength required for industrial tools and aerospace.
1. Mechanical Specification Comparison

2. Why Material Choice Dictates Design17-4PH is a precipitation-hardening grade. If your part needs to resist deformation under high torque (like a screwdriver bit or a lock bolt), 17-4PH is mandatory. However, for wearables that contact skin (like GM Metal's watch clasps), 316L's hypoallergenic and non-corrosive nature is the superior choice.
3. Summary Selection Matrix
Corrosion + Non-magnetic: 316L.
High Strength + Wear Resistance: 17-4PH.
