What is the DFARS Specialty Metals Clause?

The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement, better known as "DFARS", is an enormous and far-reaching document. As part of the even larger 'Federal Acquisition Regulations' it covers things like how a Department of Defense purchasing contract is written, negotiated, awarded, and paid for. It's an important set of guidelines designed to protect the political interests of the United States. DFARS is aimed at keeping money and quality control in the hands of our friends, and away from threats to US interests.

430FR is the choice metal for solenoids

430FR "Solenoid Quality" stainless steel rod is specifically formulated and treated to be used as the inner shaft of a linear solenoid.

Solenoids are, at heart, simple machines. You can make one yourself using copper wire, a drinking straw, a battery, and any magnetic metal. You can even use an ordinary nail for the shaft (or armature, as it is known). Coil up the wire around the straw, put the nail inside and attach the two loose ends of the wire to a battery. That's it. Watch the nail move in and out of the straw as the electrified wire creates a magnetic field that attracts or repels the shaft.

316 LVM?  What is that?

I'm looking for...

What do you call that highly refined grade of stainless steel that all your medical device customers ask for? If you're like us, and most people in the business, you call it "316 LVM" and never really think about it. At least not until a customer print calls for something like "316L ASTM F138" or "Implant Grade 316" or "316LS²". Then you might get out your books, search Google, check the specs and mill test reports, and make sure that what you're buying or selling is just what they need. And chances are you've got it right. But why all the names? What should it really be called?

There's only one definitive answer to that, but before I reveal that magical answer let's first look at the path we take to get there.

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