The medical industry demands high quality materials with a unique combination of properties. They have to be strong, lightweight, corrosion resistant, hygienic, and non-toxic. In addition, hygiene is vital so they need to be easy to sterilise. Of all the options, 1.4123 stainless steel bar is one of the best specialist alloys. We want to have a closer look at it here, then you can come to us if you need to order.
A niche alloy
The steel is a martensitic grade of 420 stainless, one of the hardest grades. The martensite is the crystalline structure of the metal. It makes it harder than austenitic steels, providing more strength and durability. However, it does have less ductility and weldability.
The steel is made using ESR (electro-slag remelting or electro-flux). It is an interesting technique that creates high quality ingots of metal with fewer impurities and inclusions. This is vital for medical equipment because it improves the strength and stress resistance.
If that wasn’t enough, the stainless steel is also hardenable. You can harden it up to 57 HRC. It is important to remember this and consider the impact on surgical tools. While it is hard, it does allow sharpening.
Composition
It is a good idea to take a closer look at the composition of 1.4123 stainless steel bar. The alloy includes molybdenum, nitrogen, and vanadium. This provides a number of interesting characteristics.
The primary thing here is the excellent corrosion resistance. It is better than other medical grades, such as 440B and 440C.
In addition, the stainless steel has good wear resistance and can resist blunting. These properties are what make it one of the best choices for surgical tools.
Finally, the steel can receive high quality mirror polishing. It creates smooth, shiny surfaces. This provides several benefits, including ensuring there are no rough spots that could hold dirt, blood, or other contaminants.
Specifications for 1.4123 stainless steel bar
The metal is primarily known as EN 1.4123 or X40CrMoVN16.2. However it also meets several other specifications, such as:
ASTM F-899-20
NF S94-090 (chem.)
AISI 420 mod. UNS S42025/S42000
AMS 5925 Rev. B (chem. only)
Finish
It is also important to note that the steel is annealed. The heat treatment includes slow cooling to remove internal stresses.
The steel has a peeled surface. After annealing, peeling removes the oxide layer and any imperfections.
Finally, the metal receives ultrasonic inspection. This is a form of non-destructive testing (NDT). It inspects the steel for defects such as inclusions. Plus, it ensures the material is the right hardness, < 265 HB.
Uses
As we said above, 1.4123 stainless steel bar is ideal for medical and surgical implements. It is also one of the best options for dental instruments and other equipment.
The potential uses here are huge, including everything from scalpels to forceps and clamps. You can even have things like suction tips as well as tools for energy systems.
Order from us
Brindley Metals is proud to offer this fantastic material. We prioritise quality here, ensuring we only source materials that satisfy the specifications. As a result, customers can buy from us with confidence.
There is a selection of sizes with the bars; we supply it in 50mm diameter, 65mm diameter, 85mm diameter, and 105mm diameter. This gives you a great deal of choice.
So, speak to us if you want to order 1.4123 stainless steel bar. We can also offer more information if you have any questions.