304B4 Alloy Powder: High-Boron Stainless Steel for Specialized Applications
Overview:
304B4 alloy powder is a high-boron stainless steel designed for applications requiring superior neutron absorption, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength. With a boron content of approximately 4%, this material is particularly suited for use in nuclear, aerospace, and industrial sectors. Its spherical powder form ensures excellent flowability and precision, making it ideal for additive manufacturing and powder metallurgy.
What is 304B4 Alloy Powder?
304B4 is a boron-enriched version of the 304 stainless steel series. The high boron content enhances neutron absorption and wear resistance while maintaining the excellent corrosion resistance and weldability of the base material. This alloy is a reliable choice for challenging environments requiring specialized performance.
Composition:
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0-20.0 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 8.0-12.0 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤2.0 |
| Boron (B) | ~4.0 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤0.75 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤0.03 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤0.045 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤0.03 |
Features:
High Neutron Absorption: Boron content ensures exceptional neutron capture capabilities.
Corrosion Resistance: Maintains the excellent corrosion resistance of the 304 series.
Wear Resistance: Enhanced durability for demanding environments.
Applications:
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Nuclear | Reactor shielding and neutron absorption |
| Aerospace | High-performance structural components |
| Industrial | Corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant parts |
Specifications:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Particle Size | Customizable for specific applications |
| Density | ~7.7 g/cm³ |
| Hardness | ~250-300 HV |
| Tensile Strength | ~650-850 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ~300-500 MPa |
Advantages:
Specialized Performance: Combines corrosion resistance with neutron-absorbing properties.
Versatility: Suitable for diverse environments, including nuclear and industrial applications.
Precision Manufacturing: Spherical powder ensures consistent flowability and uniformity.
Limitations:
Cost: Higher boron content increases material and production costs.
Processing Challenges: Advanced machining tools may be required due to increased hardness.
FAQs:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What industries use 304B4 alloy powder? | Nuclear, aerospace, and industrial sectors. |
| How does boron enhance its properties? | Boron improves neutron absorption, wear resistance, and durability. |
| Why is the spherical powder form advantageous? | It ensures better flowability, precision, and reduced waste in manufacturing. |