Introduction of 316lvm:
Vacuum arc remelting (VAR) technology is utilized. This process produces more consistent chemical properties with minimal voids and contaminants, making it more suitable for use as a surgical implant
This austenitic stainless steel is initially produced using arc melting technology. Then, as an improvement in metal purity and uniformity, 316LVM is vacuum arc remelted (VAR). This process produces a more uniform chemistry that minimizes porosity and contamination. This alloy meets all of the requirements of 316LS.
Heat Treatment
A reducing atmosphere is preferred for heat treatment, but inert gases may be used. At 1010-1121°C, 316LVM will anneal completely in a few minutes. Corrosion resistance in other 300 series alloys, which is reduced by carbide precipitation problems, is controlled in 316LVM by reducing the carbon content.
Applications:
The 316LVM material has been used in permanent implants for many years. Corrosion resistance in the annealed condition is good. Many studies of new alloys have used 316LVM as a reference. This stainless steel has good ductility under cold working conditions. Applications include: sutures, orthopedic orthopedic cables, staples for skin sutures, catheters, bone pins and many small machined parts.
Surface Condition
When stainless steel is drawn to a fine wire, it becomes highly polished in appearance. Surface roughness can be less than 5 RMS when treated with a SCND* die and measured with a surface photometer. wires over 0.040" in diameter are polished with polycrystalline dies, which have a rougher surface than wires polished with natural diamond dies. Wires over 0.100" in diameter have an even rougher surface because they are drawn using a carbide die. Other surface treatments can enhance the surface of the wire.
*SCND denotes Single Crystal Natural Diamond.