Medical Uses for Alloys

Special metal alloys are used within a number of different industries, including the health and medical sector. Common treatments such as joint replacement, pacemakers and stents, as well as general surgical tools and equipment are all made of metal alloys.

Some of these operations could not have been possible without these advanced metals.

Alloys in Medicine

Because the human body is quite a challenging environment, the chosen alloys need to have the correct characteristics in order to be biocompatible. Any implantable metal needs to be highly corrosion resistant, nontoxic and have the ability to withstand high stress load cycles.

Two Medical Uses of Alloys

Medical Devices and Implants

Titanium

Titanium is the most popular choice of alloy for medical devices and implants as it is one of the few that naturally matches the requirements. Light, strong and biocompatible, titanium is ideal for joint replacement implants. With a higher strength to weight ratio than stainless steels, titanium can be tailored to meet the needs for medical devices of every description.

Austenitic Stainless Steel

Non-magnetic stainless steels meet the technical requirements for the production of implants. With high levels of chromium and nickel, alongside low levels of carbon, they have excellent mechanical properties. Corrosion resistant and easy workability, austenitic stainless steels are perfect for implantable medical devices.

Medical Instruments and Surgical Metals

Titanium

Titanium is also popularly used for surgical instruments. Its corrosion resistance is desirable for the repeat sterilisation of tools where other characteristics will not be compromised during this process. Due to its strong yet light quality, it will not cause fatigue for the surgeon. Also, as it is not magnetic, there will be no risk of damaging implanted electronic devices.

Martensitic Stainless Steel

Specifically chosen for surgical cutting instruments, martensitic stainless steel is extremely hard and tough with excellent abrasion resistance. This means that it is robust throughout surgery and can withhold high stress load cycles. As well as this, it also has excellent corrosion resistance which is required for contact with the human body.

Alloys from China Alloy Parts

China Alloy Parts are leading independent stockist and distributor of specialist and exotic alloys. We can help you find the perfect Alloy for your application.

Contact us today to speak to one of our experts.