316LVM is a low-carbon austenitic stainless steel specified by ASTM F138 for biomedical implant applications, characterized by controlled chromium, nickel, and molybdenum content that balances corrosion resistance with mechanical workability. It is the material of choice for permanent and semi-permanent implants in orthopedic and cardiovascular devices due to its superior resistance to bodily fluids and its ability to maintain structural integrity under cyclic loading in the human body. Engineers select 316LVM over commodity stainless steels (like 304) because the low-carbon content and molybdenum addition minimize sensitization and intergranular corrosion, while its fatigue and tensile properties reliably support load-bearing implant designs.
Compliance & Regulations
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Elongation at Break(εf) | 12.00 | - | — | ||
Fatigue Strength (10⁷ cycles)(σf) | 37.71 | ksi | notes | ||
Hardness (Rockwell C)(HRC) | 28.00 | HRC | notes | ||
Poisson's Ratio(ν) | 0.2750 | - | — | ||
Ultimate Tensile Strength(σUTS) | 124.7 | ksi | — | ||
Yield Strength (0.2% offset)(σy) | 100.1 | ksi | ASTM F138, cold worked | ||
Young's Modulus(E) | 27,992.3 | ksi | — |
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Density(ρ) | 0.2890 | lb/in³ | — |