316LVM vs 316L Stainless Steel
Understanding the difference between 316LVM and standard 316L stainless steel is critical for medical and precision applications.
What Is 316LVM?
316LVM is a vacuum melted version of 316L stainless steel, produced using processes such as:
- Vacuum arc remelting (VAR)
- Electroslag remelting (ESR)
This results in a cleaner, more consistent material.
Key Differences (316L & 316LVM)
| Feature | 316LVM | 316L |
|---|---|---|
| Melt Process | Vacuum Melted | Air Melted |
| Cleanliness | Very High | Standard |
| Inclusion Content | Low | Higher |
| Application | Medical/Implants | General Use |
When to Use 316LVM
- Implantable components
- Surgical devices
- High-reliability applications
When 316L Is Sufficient, instead of 316LVM:
- General machining
- Industrial applications
- Non-critical environments
Supply Options
At Mozaic Precision Metals, we supply both:
- ASTM F138 (316LVM)
- Standard 316L stainless
👉 Compare options or request the right material for your application.