Surgical stainless steel is a specific grade of stainless steel used for medical instruments and jewelry. It contains higher amounts of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum for durability, hardness, and compatibility with the human body. It is highly resistant to corrosion and bacteria, making it ideal for surgical equipment and implants. It is also commonly used in jewelry for sensitive skin. Manufacturers create specific blends of compounds to provide desired properties.
The term surgical stainless steel describes a particular grade of stainless steel that contains a special blend of compounds. This base metal is typically used for medical instruments and jewelry. The specific characteristics found in surgical steel make it compatible with the human body, so it is ideal for surgical equipment, implants and piercings.
Manufacturers create surgical stainless steel products using a blend of stainless steel that contains higher amounts of chromium, nickel and molybdenum. These substances provide specific characteristics such as hardness, durability and a glossy finish that resists scratches. Two types of stainless steel are used in making medical instruments. Martensitic steel provides hardness to hold firm edges and strength for lasting stability. Austenitic steel is softer and non-magnetic, so it works better in objects that are implanted, such as pins or screws used in orthopedic procedures.
Examples of stainless steel surgical medical equipment include the scalpel and forceps. Surgical tools are regularly exposed to blood, which is highly corrosive. The extra chromium in surgical steel protects against corrosion caused by exposure to blood and other harmful substances. Chrome also provides a scratch resistant surface, which eliminates scratches or marks on medical instruments that can harbor bacteria.
Sharp edges are a key feature of surgical instruments, because they must remain sharp and precise despite repeated use. Molybdenum keeps stainless steel surgical instruments sharp and rigid. Razor-sharp edges are a must during surgery, because a perfect incision is an absolute necessity. Durability is also important for medical instruments, as they are continually exposed to harsh cleaning chemicals and high heat for sterilization. Surgical stainless steel is highly durable, does not stain, and is antibacterial, making it particularly suitable for use within the body.
One of the most common uses of surgical stainless steel is in jewelry. Anyone with a navel or tongue piercing should be familiar with this type of metal, because it is usually used to pierce these sensitive areas. People with sensitive skin require surgical steel earrings to avoid infections or reactions, especially in newly pierced ears.
Surgical stainless steel products are designed and created to function within the particular environment in which they will be used. Manufacturers often make a specific item to a special order, based on very specific needs. The recipes for this type of steel contain varying degrees of chromium, nickel and other compounds which work together to provide the desired properties.
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