Abstract: Vacuum carbothermal reduction of N₂-atomized 316L powders and effects of green compact density on hot extrusion and properties of extruded products were investigated. A new capsuleless hot extrusion process of P/M 316L stainless steel was developed and is suitable for present industrial condi tions in China. The basic route of the process is: N₂ atomization→vacuum sinte-ring→hot extrusion.