Post-Processing Optimization of MDLP-Fabricated 316L Stainless Steel: Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties

Metal Digital light processing (MDLP) offers high resolution and excellent surface quality, but the final properties of printed parts are highly dependent on post-processing. In this study, the effects of debinding, decarburization, and sintering on the shape fidelity, microstructure, and mechanical properties of MDLP-fabricated 316L stainless steel were systematically investigated. The optimal post-processing route consisted of debinding in an inert atmosphere, decarburization in air within 400–600 °C, and sintering at 1370 °C for 4 h under flowing nitrogen. Under these conditions, the sintered parts achieved a relative density of 98.03 ± 0.23%, hardness of 380.63 ± 9.15 HV, elastic modulus of 213.47 ± 5.5 GPa, tensile strength of 519.7 ± 22 MPa, and elongation at fracture of 76.8 ± 9.3%. Microstructural analysis showed that increasing the sintering temperature reduced porosity and smoothed the morphology of Cr-rich oxygen-containing second phase regions, thereby alleviating stress concentration and improving mechanical properties. This study provides an effective post-processing strategy for MDLP-fabricated 316L stainless steel and examines the microstructural origins of the observed property evolution.