Inconel is a nickel-chromium-based superalloy. Inconel alloys are resistant to oxidation and corrosion and are most effective for some of the adverse use conditions to be found in production. When compared to stainless steel Inconel has an extremely high resistance to high temperatures and doesn’t lose as much tensile strength at 2,000 degrees F as compared to most steel grades.
However, Inconel is a high priced material and hence used in the conditions where other materials aren’t suitable. With this in mind, here are a few examples of uses for Inconel over most formulations of stainless steel:
Heat Treatment Applications
Inconel is excellent resistant to extreme temperature. It retains enough tensile strength to hold moderate loads e.g. Inconel 625 retains 13.3 ksi at 2,000 degrees F. That is why Inconel basket is most suitable for heat treatment applications compare to other metals.
An Inconel basket doesn’t change structure easily when holding parts through a meticulous heat treatment application compared to most stainless steel alloys.
Rapidly Changing Temperature
Often the use of high and low temperatures in rapid succession can be paired with a production process. Many grades of Inconel alloys possess exceptional corrosion tolerance at varying temperatures, enabling one basket made from Inconel to be used in applications where temperatures range from near-cryogenic low temperatures to heat treatment at extreme temperatures.
When Exposure to Saltwater is a Concern
Due to its outstanding resistance to salt at a variety of temperatures Inconel is frequently utilized in marine applications. Inconel can be the most suitable material for a washing basket where the process includes the use of sodium chloride or if the factory is located near the sea.
Although few grades of SS also display outstanding saltwater resistance. So, when will Inconel be suitable for use?
If extreme temperatures in which the basket is used is above 1,000 degrees F Inconel would be preferred above stainless steel 316 grade. Inconel retains excellent oxidation resistance at high temperatures compared to stainless steel grade 316 SS.
Jet Engines
Inconel is used to manufacture jet engines and turbines.
While in use, jet engines are distinctive in their ability to resist extreme temperatures that are high and low. The average air temperature is -56.3 degree C (-69.3 degree F), but the combustion process can exceed temperatures of 1,150 degrees C (2120 degree F).
Cooling techniques are used to dramatically lower temperatures. However, temperatures can still easily exceed most metal tolerances. Despite numerous temperature variations from the combustion process and cooling methods used in the aviation industry, Inconel 600 retains a high resistance to oxidation and tensile strength.
Inconel is a suitable material whenever intense temperature and chemical resistance are vital, and in any method in which high temperatures would normally degrade other metals’ oxidation resistance.
Inconel is not, however, the only option for different parts addressing the difficulties of basket engineering. Compared to the capabilities of various metal types, it is vital to consider every aspect of your manufacturing process and needs to get the best basket for the job.
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