316 ss ??? 2

[rck329]

Hello all,

Can anyone tell me what the difference is between "regular" 316/316L stainless, and "implantable grade" 316/316L?

Is this just a marketing ploy by the steel companies, or is there some discernable difference (i.e. - tighter composition tolerances, clean room handling, lower contaminant requirements)

thanks for any help

Ryan

Lifecor Inc
Pittsburgh, PA

 

[AJohnson]

rck329,

Yes, there is a difference between standard AISI 316/316L (UNS S31600/S31603) and 316/316L that is designed for use in the human body as a biomaterial (UNS S31673). ASTM standards that cover S31673 are ASTM F138 and F139, depending on product shape. For starters, biomaterial grade S31673 has lower phosphorous and sulfur levels, and higher chromium and nickel levels.

Try here to order the ASTM

http://www.astm.org/

Andy