system, are being considered as a potential replacement for
conventional nickel-containing alloys. Because of this, with the
development of new surgical stainless steels and the modification
of ASTM medical standards, the nickel content is decreasing and
the nitrogen content is increasing. Currently, in ASTM standards,
two nickel-free medical-grade stainless steels are imported: ASTM:
F2229 and ASTM: F2581.