Abstract <p>Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an essential technique for producing metallic parts, and it requires precise optimization of parameters to ensure mechanical performance and densification. Volumetric energy density (<i>V</i>_ED) is a key factor in evaluating LPBF processes in this study. This research examines 25 samples of LPBF-processed SS321 alloy to investigate the impact of various parameters on mechanical and tribological properties. Subsequently, the samples exhibited their optimal performance, the ultimate tensile strength of around 477.67&#xa0;MPa, and an elongation to failure of approximately 34.51% at a <i>V</i>_ED of 65.66&#xa0;J/mm³. Conversely, at the reduced <i>V</i>_ED of 31.47&#xa0;J/mm³, the presence of noticeable voids and cracks severely impacted their tensile characteristics (141.24&#xa0;MPa and 10.3%). Moreover, the material’s fracture characteristics revealed a combination of ductile and brittle fracture that was largely governed by the clustering of dimples and smaller pores. Notably, parts processed with a <i>V</i>_ED of 31.47&#xa0;J/mm³ (9.65%) exhibited significantly higher porosity than those with 65.66&#xa0;J/mm³ (0.88%). This increased porosity is one of the key factors contributing to the reduced tensile strength in the parts. Moreover, a friction wear analysis revealed that the friction wear coefficient and wear rate for the SS321 parts created through LPBF progressively decreased (0.27, 6.24379 × 10⁻⁵&#xa0;mm³/Nm) as the <i>V</i>_ED increased (73.86&#xa0;J/mm³). Meanwhile, the predominant wear mechanisms contributing to wear during testing were found to be abrasive, adhesive, and oxidative wear. Furthermore, this study offers valuable insights for selecting process parameters that can improve the mechanical properties in LPBF production.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>