In this work the morphology, the size and the chemical composition of the powders
of steel 316L received by the two methods was studied: fusion dispersion by a gas stream and
reduction of metal chlorides with the subsequent plasma atomization of the received powder
particles. The powder particles received by the first method have a spherical shape (aspect ratio
1.0–1.2) with an average size of 77 μm and are characterized by the absence of internal
porosity. Particles of the powder received by the second method also have a spherical shape
and faultless structure, however, their chemical composition may vary in different particles.
The average size of particles is 32 μm. Though the obtained powders had different properties,
the experimental samples received by DLD technology demonstrated by equally high
durability (Ultimate strength is 623±5 and of 623±18 MPa respectively) and plasticity (38 and
41 % respectively). It is established that mechanical properties of DLD samples increase for
7–10 % after treatment of the surface.