ASTM F138-13, “Standard Specification for Wrought 18Chromium-14Nickel-2.5Molybdenum Stainless Steel Bar and Wire for Surgical Implants (UNS S31673),” has just been released. It is available now from Document Center Inc. in paper, pdf, and redline editions. The document covers the chemical, mechanical, and metallurgical requirements for wrought 18 chromium-14 nickel- 2.5 molybdenum stainless steel bar and wire used for the manufacture of surgical implants.
ASTM F138 was written to ensure consistent material, used either directly or as forged, in the manufacturing of medical devices. This low carbon alloy was chosen in order to avoid intergranular corrosion. The basis for the metallurgical requirements is the consensus that a homogeneous structure is superior in it’s resistance to corrosion and fatigue.
The current edition does allow for both inch-pound or SI units, although the user must choose one or the other of the two systems. This is to facilitate the transition by the medical materials industry to SI units by 2018.
The new 2013 edition replaces the earlier ASTM F138-08. Beyond the modifications to allow for the use of SI units, there are also new standards referenced and others removed in this edition. And Sections 10, 11.3 and 13 have been added/updated.
All current ASTM and many obsolete editions are available from Document Center’s website, www.document-center.com. Or contact us by phone (650-591-7600), fax (650-591-7617) or email (info@document-center.com). We’ve been providing ASTM standards under license agreement since the 1980’s and can assist you with the questions that may arise for these compliance documents.