3. Sterilization-Proof Marking Techniques

This is where most marking failures originate. The right mark type must survive the specific sterilization method your device encounters.

Mark Types and Sterilization Survival

✅ = Proven reliable | ⚠️ = Requires validation | ❌ = Not recommended

Why Annealing Is the Standard for Surgical Stainless

Annealed marks create a thin oxide layer on the surface without removing material. This is critical because:

Deep engraving, by contrast, removes material and creates crevices. In an autoclave environment with repeated exposure to high-temperature steam, these crevices can:

• Trap biological residue despite cleaning
• Become initiation points for corrosion
• Gradually degrade, reducing mark readability over time