Inconel

Inconel belongs to the family of super-alloys that are nickel-chromium-based austenitic steels. Inconel alloys are oxidation resistant and are capable of bearing extreme environments. Inconel can resist a wide range of temperatures where stainless steel and aluminum would succumb.

Inconel forms a passivating layer of oxide over its surface when heated, which protects it from further damage. Solid solution strengthening and precipitation strengthening cause Inconel to bear the high-temperature resistance. Inconel is always used in extreme environments such as gas turbine blades, turbocharger rotors and seals, chemical vessels, pressure vessels, heat exchangers, steam generators, core components of nuclear-pressurized water reactors, and natural gas processing. It is more robust than stainless steel when it comes to extreme temperature services. It can also withstand temperature fluctuations easily, hence making it usable in processes where temperatures vary from freezing to the melting point. It can also resist sodium chloride corrosion well and is used for many marine applications.

FAQs of Inconel

What is Inconel?

Inconel is an alloy made up primarily of nickel and chromium. It is highly resistant to heat, corrosion, and oxidation, making it a popular material for use in industrial settings. Inconel is used in aerospace components, chemical processing equipment, marine applications, and more. Its strength and durability make it an ideal choice for demanding tasks.

Is Inconel Corrosion Resistant?

Yes, Inconel is highly resistant to corrosion. It is an alloy made up primarily of nickel and chromium, making it highly resistant to oxidation and heat. This makes it an ideal choice for various industrial applications exposed to harsh environments, such as marine applications or chemical processing equipment.

What is Inconel alloy made of?

Inconel alloy is primarily nickel and chromium, with additional elements such as iron, molybdenum, and titanium contributing to its strength and resistance to corrosion.

What are the applications of Inconel?

Inconel is often used for applications where high temperatures and corrosion resistance are necessary, such as in aircraft engines, industrial furnaces, and chemical processing equipment. It is also frequently used in medical implants, exhaust systems, and turbochargers.

What is the difference between Incoloy & Inconel?

Inconel and Incoloy are both nickel-based alloys that contain chromium, iron, and other elements. The major difference between the two is that Inconel is made with a higher percentage of nickel than Incoloy. This makes Inconel better suited for applications where high temperatures are common, as it offers superior heat resistance compared to Incoloy.

What is the difference between Hastelloy & Inconel?

Hastelloy and Inconel are both nickel-based alloys, but they have different compositions. Inconel is made up of a higher percentage of nickel than Hastelloy, which makes it more resistant to high temperatures. Hastelloy also contains molybdenum and other elements, which gives it superior corrosion resistance compared to Inconel.

How to weld Inconel?

In order to properly weld Inconel, you need to prepare the material and use an appropriate welding technique. Start by cleaning the joint of any contaminants such as dirt, oil or grease. Then, choose a suitable welding method for your application - arc welding or inert tungsten gas (TIG) welding are generally recommended for Inconel. Finally, use a MIG wire that is designed for welding nickel alloys, such as Hastelloy or Incoloy. Adjust the current, voltage, and speed accordingly, and then weld the material.

Is Inconel magnetic?

No, Inconel is non-magnetic. It has a low magnetic permeability and does not have significant residual magnetism. Inconel alloys are also non-hardenable so they cannot be hardened through heat treatment.