a hand in a glove holding a scalpel Credit: Shutterstock
Published
Nov 6, 2025 10:39 AM CET
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Whitepaper: A cut above

Sourcing optimal strip steel to achieve next-level precision

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Surgery is one of the foundational pillars of modern medicine. Each procedure demands precision, not only from the surgeon’s skill, but also from the instruments in their hands. We know that the quality and reliability of these instruments start with the steel they are made from.

Defects such as burrs and cracks can compromise safety, function, and longevity. That’s why the purity, hardness, and corrosion resistance of the steel play a decisive role in both patient safety and surgical success.

The role of steel quality

Even the smallest imperfection, invisible to the naked eye, can weaken an instrument or create crevices where bacteria may accumulate and evade sterilization. To eliminate these risks, we produces medical-grade steels to exceptionally high standards and with fine grain structures. This enables manufacturers to create smooth, defect-free surfaces, essential for precise and durable surgical instruments.

Toughness is another key quality. Instruments must withstand sudden forces without fracturing, while also maintaining sharpness and stability over time. For scalpels, microtome knives, and other cutting tools, a consistent, razor-sharp edge ensures surgical precision and reduces trauma to surrounding tissue, supporting faster recovery and improved outcomes.

Inferior steels can warp, corrode, or dull rapidly, posing potential safety hazards. In contrast, our steels are engineered for longevity and reliability, protecting patients while supporting healthcare providers with stable, high-performing solutions.

Setting the benchmark with Alleima® 13C26

One material that exemplifies this balance is Alleima® 13C26. Originally developed for razor blades, this strip steel has become a benchmark in surgical applications thanks to its unique combination of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.

The purity and fine microstructure of Alleima® 13C26 enable it to achieve extremely sharp and stable edges, even under demanding conditions. For surgical blades, scalpels, and microtome knives, this translates into precision, consistency, and reliability, exactly what surgeons depend on during critical procedures.

We continue to drive material innovation for the medical industry, ensuring that every development in steel quality contributes to safer, more effective surgical outcomes. Because true surgical success depends not only on human expertise, but also on the resilience and performance of the instruments themselves.