Core Differences Between Medical and Non-Medical Stainless Steel

The primary distinctions between medical and non-medical stainless steel lie in biocompatibility and corrosion resistance.

Biocompatibility: The Material's "Affinity" with the Human Body
Medical stainless steel must not only possess excellent physical properties but also demonstrate compatibility with human tissues and bodily fluids, ensuring no allergic reactions, rejection, or long-term harm. In contrast, ordinary stainless steel (such as 304 stainless steel), while corrosion-resistant, lacks rigorously certified biocompatibility and is therefore unsuitable for prolonged contact with the human body.

Corrosion Resistance: Long-Term Stability Within the Body
Medical stainless steel must exhibit exceptional corrosion resistance to withstand the complex internal environment of the human body, particularly exposure to blood, bodily fluids, salts, and acidic substances. Non-medical stainless steel, with its lower corrosion resistance, is prone to deterioration when exposed to such conditions over time, compromising both the durability and safety of the device.

Selecting Medical Stainless Steel: Ensuring Safety and Performance
When choosing stainless steel materials, considerations extend beyond corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. The selection must also account for the device's operational environment, load-bearing requirements, and durability.

• Implantable devices (e.g., vascular stents, artificial joints) require materials such as 316L or 316LVM, which offer superior biocompatibility and corrosion resistance.

• Non-implantable devices (e.g., surgical instruments, catheters) can utilize 304L or 304V, as their corrosion resistance and strength are sufficient for standard medical applications.