{"id":4094,"date":"2025-06-18T22:16:35","date_gmt":"2025-06-18T22:16:35","guid":{"rendered":""},"modified":"2025-07-07T10:44:38","modified_gmt":"2025-07-07T10:44:38","slug":"maraging-steel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/maraging-steel\/","title":{"rendered":"Guide to Maraging Steel [+ Properties & Applications]"},"content":{"rendered":"

Discover the properties and design guidelines of maraging steel, and how Unionfab helps you get high-strength parts with precision and speed.<\/p>\n

Introduction<\/h2>\n

Maraging steel is a high-performance alloy known for its exceptional strength, toughness, and dimensional stability. The name “maraging” comes from a combination of \u201cmartensitic\u201d and \u201caging,\u201d referring to the material\u2019s transformation into a martensitic structure followed by precipitation hardening (also known as aging treatment).<\/p>\n

First developed in the 1960s for aerospace applications, maraging steel offers a unique combination of machinability in the annealed state and ultra-high strength after heat treatment. Common grades include 18Ni(300), which offers ultra-high tensile strength, excellent crack resistance, and easy machinability before aging.<\/p>\n

Maraging steels are typically composed of iron, nickel (17\u201319%), cobalt, molybdenum, and small additions of titanium and aluminum.<\/p>\n

Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties<\/h2>\n

The typical chemical composition of maraging steel grade 18Ni(300) is:<\/p>\n

\"Typical
Chemical Composition of Maraging Steel<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After aging treatment, maraging steel can achieve the following mechanical properties:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/colgroup>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\n

Property<\/p>\n<\/th>\n

\n

Typical Value<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Tensile Strength<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Up to 2,000 MPa<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Yield Strength<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

~1,800 MPa<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Hardness (HRC)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

48\u201352<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Elongation<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

~8\u201310%<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Density<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

~8.0 g\/cm\u00b3<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

At Unionfab, our maraging steel materials are sourced and inspected to ensure conformity with DIN 1.2709 and AMS 6514 standards.<\/p>\n

To explore detailed specifications, recommended applications, and processing guidelines, download our full maraging steel datasheet here: Maraging Steel – Metal 3D Printing Service | Unionfab<\/a>.<\/p>\n

How Does Maraging Steel Compare to Other Steels?<\/h2>\n

When selecting a material for high-performance parts, it\u2019s important to compare maraging steel with other industrial-grade steels:<\/p>\n

\"
Property Comparison of Maraging Steel with Tool Steel and Stainless Steel<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/colgroup>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\n

Property<\/p>\n<\/th>\n

\n

Maraging Steel<\/p>\n<\/th>\n

\n

Tool Steel (e.g., H13)<\/p>\n<\/th>\n

\n

Stainless Steel (e.g., 316L)<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Strength (MPa)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Up to 2,000 MPa (after aging)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

1,300\u20131,600 MPa<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

~500 MPa<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Toughness<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Excellent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Moderate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Moderate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Hardness<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Up to 50+ HRC (aged)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

High<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Low to moderate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Machinability (before aging)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Good<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Moderate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Good<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Weldability<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Excellent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Limited<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Good<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\n

Corrosion Resistance<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Moderate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

Low<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

High<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Compared to traditional high-strength steels, maraging steel offers a rare combination of easy machinability (before aging) and ultra-high mechanical strength (after aging).<\/p>\n

This makes it ideal for parts requiring precision and durability, especially in industries where mechanical failure is unacceptable.<\/p>\n

Is Maraging Steel Suitable for CNC Machining and 3D Printing?<\/h2>\n

Yes \u2014 maraging steel performs excellently in both CNC machining and metal additive manufacturing, particularly in DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) and SLM (Selective Laser Melting) processes.<\/p>\n

CNC Machining<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u25cf Before aging, maraging steel is relatively soft and easy to cut, reducing tool wear and allowing for high precision.<\/p>\n

\u25cf After machining, the parts can be heat treated to achieve full mechanical strength.<\/p>\n

\u25cf The low distortion during heat treatment makes maraging steel ideal for tight-tolerance parts.<\/p>\n

3D Printing<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u25cf Maraging steel powder is widely used for metal 3D printing due to its excellent mechanical response to post-processing.<\/p>\n

\u25cf Parts printed with maraging steel can be heat-treated after printing to reach final hardness and performance targets.<\/p>\n

\u25cf It is especially suitable for complex geometries, mold inserts, and low-volume functional prototypes.<\/p>\n

What Is SLM and Why Is It Ideal for Maraging Steel?<\/h3>\n

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is one of the most effective additive manufacturing techniques for processing high-performance metal alloys like maraging steel. SLM builds parts layer-by-layer using a high-powered laser, ensuring excellent density and material properties.<\/p>\n

Maraging steel performs exceptionally well under SLM due to:<\/p>\n

\u25cf Excellent weldability<\/p>\n

\u25cf Minimal cracking risk<\/p>\n

\u25cf Consistent mechanical properties after aging<\/p>\n

To learn more about how SLM works and why it\u2019s ideal for precision engineering, check out our article:<\/p>\n

Guide to SLM 3D Printing\/Metal LPBF [+Cost Calculator]<\/a><\/p>\n

Design Guidelines for 3D Printing Maraging Steel Parts<\/h3>\n

When designing components for metal 3D printing with maraging steel, several best practices can help ensure optimal quality, mechanical performance, and post-processing efficiency:<\/p>\n

\u25cf Wall Thickness: Minimum recommended wall thickness is 0.8\u20131.0 mm to ensure structural integrity and consistent fusion.<\/p>\n

\u25cf Overhangs & Supports: Features with angles greater than 45\u00b0 typically require support structures. Our team can assist in optimizing your design for support minimization.<\/p>\n

\u25cf Hole Diameter: Small holes (<2 mm) may close during printing. Consider drilling or reaming them post-printing or increasing size during design.<\/p>\n

\u25cf Text and Embossed Features: Ensure embossed\/recessed features are at least 0.3 mm deep and 1.0 mm wide for visibility.<\/p>\n

\u25cf Tolerance Expectations: Achievable tolerances are typically within \u00b10.1 mm, depending on geometry and post-processing needs.<\/p>\n

\u25cf Heat Treatment Considerations: Leave adequate allowance for post-print machining or surface finishing if tight fits are required.<\/p>\n

Unionfab offers DFAM (Design for Additive Manufacturing) consultation<\/a> to help you adapt your CAD model for optimal performance in maraging steel. We also provide simulation-based support optimization and finishing guidance for functional parts.<\/p>\n

Why Choose Unionfab for Maraging Steel Parts?<\/h2>\n

\u25cf One-stop production: from design review to post-processing<\/p>\n

\u25cf Support for both CNC and DMLS manufacturing<\/p>\n

\u25cf Fast turnaround on custom 1.2709 orders<\/p>\n

\u25cf Quality assurance backed by ISO 9001 workflows<\/p>\n

\u25cf Engineering consultation to optimize cost and material use<\/p>\n

Unionfab supports both CNC and 3D printing production using maraging steel, particularly grade 1.2709 (18Ni300). We provide technical consultation and offer small to large batch production services.<\/p>\n

Key Applications of Maraging Steel<\/h2>\n

Due to its unique balance of high strength and good workability, maraging steel is widely used in industries where reliability and fatigue resistance are critical:<\/p>\n

\u25cf Injection Molds and Die Casting: Long-lasting tooling with reduced cracking risk<\/p>\n

\u25cf Aerospace Components: Structural parts and brackets with minimal weight and maximum strength<\/p>\n

\u25cf Motorsport and Automotive: Gears, shafts, and powertrain components<\/p>\n

\u25cf Defense and Security: Missile skins, pressure vessels, high-strength fasteners<\/p>\n

\u25cf Additive Manufacturing: Tool inserts and conformal cooling channels with post-processing options<\/p>\n

Conclusion: Why Choose Maraging Steel for Your Next Project?<\/h2>\n

Maraging steel stands out as a versatile material for both traditional and advanced manufacturing. It offers an unmatched combination of strength, dimensional stability, and post-processing flexibility \u2014 making it a top choice for engineers and manufacturers working in high-demand sectors.<\/p>\n

Unionfab offers one-stop metal manufacturing solutions, including DMLS metal printing and 5-axis CNC machining for maraging steel parts. Our engineers will assist you with design review, material selection, and post-processing guidance.<\/p>\n

Ready to try maraging steel for your custom parts?<\/p>\n

Upload your design today for a free quote \u2014 Unionfab\u2019s team will review your project and provide the best solution.<\/p>\n

\"3D<\/figure>\n

Calculate Your Cost<\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n

Q1: Is maraging steel expensive?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: It is more expensive than regular steel, but its performance per unit weight and lower failure rates often justify the cost in high-end applications.<\/p>\n

Q2: Can I machine it without heat treatment?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Yes. Maraging steel is easy to machine in its annealed state, then hardened through aging afterward.<\/p>\n

Q3: Is maraging steel corrosion-resistant?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: It has moderate corrosion resistance, but not as high as stainless steel. Surface treatments or coatings are often recommended for corrosive environments.<\/p>\n

Q4: Can I order small batches?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Yes. Unionfab supports custom low-volume production, whether through CNC or metal 3D printing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Discover the properties and design guidelines of maraging steel, and how Unionfab helps you get high-strength parts with precision and speed.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4094","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4094","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4094"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4094\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4094"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4094"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.unionfab.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4094"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}