When it comes to welding, ensuring that the right filler metal is used is crucial for a successful and long-lasting weld. And one of the most popular options in the market is AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4. This filler wire is commonly used in various applications, including in the aerospace industry, where it is known for its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance. But what exactly is AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4, and why is it so widely used? This blog post will dive deeper into the composition, physical and mechanical properties, and the uses and heat treatment of AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4.
What is AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4?
AWS Classification ERNiCrMo-4 is a nickel-based welding electrode created by the American Welding Society (AWS). It consists of a combination of 55% nickel, 20% chromium, 5.5% molybdenum and 19.5 % iron and is used in applications such as power generation, cryogenic equipment components and chemical plants exposed to hostile environments. The alloy offers outstanding cracking resistance in corrosive atmospheres while maintaining high hot ductility for applications at temperatures up to 1120°F/600°C. In addition to its favourable mechanical properties, the alloy also has excellent weldability using both manual GTAW (TIG) and GMAW (MIG) processes. Its excellent corrosion resistance protects against stress corrosion cracking in chloride environments such as seawater.
ERNiCrMo-4 Welding Wire Composition
The AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 is a nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloy with various elements in its composition. Apart from nickel, chromium and molybdenum, the filler metal also contains elements such as tungsten and niobium, which help improve the weld’s strength and toughness. Overall, the composition of the AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 gives it excellent resistance to high-temperature corrosion and oxidation, making it a reliable choice for high-stress applications.
| C | Mn | Fe | P | S | Si | Cu | Ni | Co | Cr | Mo | V | W | Other |
| 0.02 | 1.0 | 4.0-7.0 | 0.04 | 0.03 | 0.08 | 0.50 | Rem | 2.5 | 14.5-16.5 | 15.0-17.0 | 0.35 | 3.0-4.5 | 0.5 |
ERNiCrMo-4 Coated Wire Physical Properties
The AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 has a melting range between 2475-2575°F (1357-1413°C) and a 0.315 lb/in³ density. It exhibits good electrical and thermal conductivity, allowing for efficient welding wire. The filler metal also has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, which minimizes the risk of warping or distortion during the welding process.
ERNiCrMo-4 Welding Wire Mechanical Properties
The AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 has excellent mechanical properties, making it a popular choice for high-stress applications. It has high tensile strength, flexibility, and toughness and can withstand extreme temperatures without losing its structural integrity. Its low thermal expansion coefficient also ensures that the filler metal can maintain its dimensional stability under high temperatures.
| Tensile (psi) | 100,000 |
|---|---|
| Mpa | 690 |
| Elongation (%) | 30 |
ERNiCrMo-4 Coated Wire Trade Name
| Class | UNS | Oxford Alloys | Special Metals | SANDVIK | BOHLER | UTP | ESAB |
| ERNiCrMo-4 | N10276 | Alloy C-276 | INCOWELD C-276 | EXATON NI 56 | BOHLER THERMANIT NIMO C276 | UTP A 776 | OK AUTROD NICRMO-4 |
ERNiCrMo-4 Welding Wire Parameters
| Diameter | Process | Volt | Amps (flat) | Amps (V/OH) | |
| in | (mm) | ||||
| .035 | (0.9) | GMAW | 26-29 | 150-190 | Spray Transfer 100% Argon |
| .045 | (1.2) | GMAW | 28-32 | 180-220 | Spray Transfer 100% Argon |
| 1/16 | (1.6) | GMAW | 29-33 | 200-250 | Spray Transfer 100% Argon |
| 1/16 | (1.6) | GTAW | 14-18 | 90-130 | 100% Argon |
| 3/32 | (2.4) | GTAW | 15-20 | 120-175 | 100% Argon |
| 1/8 | (3.2) | GTAW | 15-20 | 150-220 | 100% Argon |
ERNiCrMo-4 Coated Wire Uses
The AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 is commonly used in the aerospace, nuclear, and chemical industries for critical applications. It is used to construct gas turbine engines, aircraft exhaust systems, and heat exchangers where it can withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments. AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 is also popular for welding nickel alloys to themselves or other materials like stainless steel.
ERNiCrMo-4 Welding Wire Heat treatment
AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 can be heat-treated to enhance its properties depending on the application. For instance, it can be annealed to improve its flexibility and toughness or solution treated to increase its resistance to high-temperature corrosion and stress corrosion cracking. Ultimately, the heat treatment will depend on the specific requirements of the project or application.
ERNiCrMo-4 Coated Wire Corrosion Resistance
One of the main advantages of AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 is its corrosion resistance, making it well-suited for use in corrosive environments. The filler metal resists pitting, crevice, and stress corrosion cracking in high-temperature chloride-containing environments, a common challenge for many other filler metals.
Conclusion:
AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 coated electrode is a popular filler metal known for its high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and reliable mechanical properties. Its composition, physical and mechanical properties make it suitable for various high-stress applications, particularly in the aerospace, nuclear, and chemical industries. AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 can be heat-treated depending on the specific application, and it resists pitting and corrosion in high-temperature chloride-containing environments. AWS Class ERNiCrMo-4 is a reliable and versatile filler metal that should be seriously considered for your welding needs.
A passionate metal industry expert and blogger. With over 5 years of experience in the field, Palak brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her writing. Whether discussing the latest trends in the metal industry or sharing tips, she is dedicated to helping others succeed in the metal industry.
