• 9341 Penn Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
  • 800-447-3317

We stock and sell 316 LVM ASTM F138 rod and wire.

316L VM Stainless Steel, often referred to as surgical grade stainless steel or implant grade stainless steel, is our most commonly sold medical stainless steel. Breaking down the name, this is a low-carbon version of 316 that has been either electro slag remelted or vacuum arc remelted to reduce impurities.

This process removes impurities and helps to form a more effective chromium oxide layer on the surface of the material than ordinary stainless steel. This layer helps hold nickel inside the bar, preventing it from triggering an allergic reaction. This protective surface also increases the length of time an implant can remain in the body without leeching into the surrounding tissues.

The medical manufacturing market is stable and largely staying within the United States of America. With our knowledge and your skill, we can help you break into this market and help secure the future of your company.

All material comes complete with mill test reports certifying the material to ASTM F138 surgical implant grade and is precision ground to ±.0005 (bar) or to ASTM F139 (sheet)

We have no minimum order, and are happy to quote in less than full bar lengths. Get only what you need, usually cut and shipped the day you order.

Chemical Data, Mechanical Properties and Specifications for 316 LVM Stainless Steel

Chemical Range
Element Minimum Maximum
Carbon -- 0.030
Chromium 17 19
Copper -- 0.50
Iron Balance --
Manganese -- 2.0
Molybdenum 2.25 3.0
Nickel 13.00 15.00
Nitrogen -- 0.10
Phosphorus -- 0.025
Silicon -- 0.75
Sulphur -- 0.010

 

Mechanical Properties Per ASTM F138 (Bar)
Condition Tensile Strengh Yield Strength Elongation in 4D
Annealed (.063" and over) 71.0 ksi (min) 27.5 ksi (min) 40%
"Cold Worked" (.063" to 1.50") 125 ksi 100 ksi 12%
"Extra-hard" (.063" to .250") 196 ksi No requirement No Requirement

 

Specifications
ASTM F138 (Rod and Flat Bar), ASTM F139 (Sheet),
UNS S31673

 

Typical uses for UNS S31673
  • Orthopedic implants (permanent and temporary)
  • Cardiac stents
  • Dental implants
  • Catheters
  • Bone pins
  • Suture wires
  • Surgical clips and staples
  • Stylets
  • Orthopedic cables

 

Get a Quote on 316L ASTM F-138 Stainless Steel