Is Inconel the same as nickel alloy?
Let's start with nickel
Nickel is an extremely adaptable element that has a variety of useful properties, such as resistance to heat, corrosion, electromagnetic properties, and low expansion. As an added benefit, it also bonds easily to a variety of different alloys.
Nickel's adaptability and natural properties make it a very useful metal. This has led to it being used to create a wide variety of nickel alloys.
So, what are nickel alloys and inconel?
"Nickel alloy" is a general term that refers to grades of metal that have a particularly high nickel content. Inconel is just a special type of nickel alloy.
When you change the chemical composition of the alloy in question, its advantages also change. Different advantages mean that different nickel alloys have different commercial uses.
These uses include:
– Aircraft gas turbines
– Steam turbine power plants
– Medical applications
– Nuclear power systems
– Chemical and petrochemical industries
Many of these applications require materials that are both corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant, so nickel and nickel alloys are a good fit.
Of all the nickel alloys, Special Pipe Materials specializes in two. Inconel Alloy 625 contains at least 58% nickel, while Inconel Alloy 825 contains 38-46% nickel. Both products are known to perform well in corrosive environments.
Gnee Steel is able to source any type of product such as round bars, flanges and even seamless pipes of Inconel Alloy 625 and Inconel Alloy 825.
Continuing the discussion of Inconel
Inconel is a group of particularly austenitic nickel-chromium based so-called "super alloys".
As mentioned earlier, one of the benefits of Inconel is its ability to be used in "extreme" environments. These "extreme" environments are either extreme temperatures or extreme pressures. This is because when Inconel is subjected to extremely high heat, it forms a very stable oxide layer that protects the metal surface from further corrosion. This process is called "passivation" and it is a very beneficial chemical reaction that essentially means that the Inconel builds its own "shield" against future damage.
This passivation process also enables Inconel to maintain its strength over a wide range of temperatures. Other metals, such as aluminum, may not be able to withstand this.
Applications of Inconel
The significant benefits of Inconel mean that it can be used in a wide range of different markets and industries, such as:
– Marine
– Aerospace
– Nuclear
– Chemical Processing
– Oil and Gas
– Automotive
The range of applications for Inconel is very wide and is often used in high performance equipment that needs to be reliable even in difficult situations. For example, in the oil and gas industry, it is commonly found in chemical processing and pressure vessels, well pump motor shafts, steam generators and even turbine blades, seals and combustion chambers.
Speaking of highly sensitive applications, Inconel can even be part of the core components of nuclear pressurized water reactors.
Unlike in the past, Inconel is also very common in the automotive industry. It can be found in Formula 1 and NASCAR exhaust systems, as well as in turbocharger systems for newer cars and motorcycles, where exhaust temperatures can reach over 1,000°C.
From nuclear power to spectator sports, nickel alloys and Inconel have indeed found their way into a variety of high-pressure environments. It is safe to say that it is a vital material grade and a clear choice for many engineers who want to make high-performance and stable products.
Let's focus on Inconel Alloy 625
Inconel Alloy 625 was invented in the 1960s to create a substance that could be used as steam pipes. It has an impressive ability to withstand high stresses and a wide temperature range. Its ability to become "passive" means it can also protect itself from corrosion and oxidation in many different situations, such as in water, air and even in acidic environments.
Since Inconel 625 was originally developed, several improvements have been made to make it easier to weld and "creep resistant". "Creep resistant" refers to the very slow but permanent movement or deformation of a solid material under the influence of sustained mechanical stress.
These improvements have allowed Inconel to be used in a wider range of applications, such as in the chemical processing industry and in the manufacture of pumps, valves and other high-pressure equipment in the marine and nuclear industries.
Some of the product and technical applications for Inconel 625 include:
– Seawater components
– Flare stacks
– Aircraft piping systems
– Specialized seawater equipment
– Chemical process equipment
– Turbine shrouds
– Engine thrust reverser systems
– Jet engine exhaust systems
Supply and demand at Gnee Steel
Nickel alloys and Inconel are two of the strongest and most durable materials, and are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of applications.
At Gnee Steel, we understand the importance of providing products that perform well in harsh environments. We supply some of the world's leading companies who need to know their equipment will perform. That's why we source and supply Nickel Alloy and Inconel products – we know they will stand the test of time.
Contact our team of experts today to discuss your requirements and learn more about the vast range of products we can source from some of the world's most reputable mills.
