Official Answer
Answer
Elgiloy (conforming to AMS 5833) provides a significantly higher fatigue limit and modulus of elasticity compared to 316 Stainless Steel. While 316 is biocompatible, its yield strength is relatively low (approx. 35-45 ksi annealed), limiting its load-bearing capacity in miniature wave springs. Elgiloy can be age-hardened to reach tensile strengths over 280 ksi, allowing for thinner cross-sections and smaller device footprints. Furthermore, Elgiloy's resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-rich environments (like human body fluids) is superior to 316, reducing the risk of stress corrosion cracking (SCC) and metal ion release over long-term implantation.
