Alloy Portfolio

Inconel 718 is a precipitation-hardening nickel-chromium alloy known for its exceptional combination of high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and weldability. Composed of approximately 50-55% nickel, 17-21% chromium, 4.75-5.5% niobium, and smaller amounts of molybdenum, titanium, aluminum, and iron, Inconel 718 derives its strength through a precipitation-hardening heat treatment process.

This alloy is widely used in aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas industries for components such as turbine discs, aerospace fasteners, and wellhead components. Inconel 718's ability to maintain its mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, coupled with its excellent resistance to corrosion and fatigue, makes it a preferred material for applications requiring reliability under extreme conditions. Additionally, its weldability allows for the fabrication of complex structures in various high-performance engineering applications.

Key Characteristics of Inconel 718:

1. High Temperature Strength: Inconel 718 retains its strength at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for applications in high-temperature environments, such as aerospace and gas turbine components.
2. Corrosion Resistance: The alloy exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, both in oxidizing and reducing environments. This makes it suitable for use in harsh chemical and corrosive environments.
3. Excellent Weldability: Inconel 718 is known for its good weldability, allowing for the fabrication of complex structures and components through welding processes.
4. Fatigue Resistance: It has high fatigue strength, making it suitable for applications that involve cyclic loading, such as aircraft components.
5. Good Formability: Inconel 718 can be easily formed and fabricated through various manufacturing processes, including forging, machining, and forming.
6. Machinability: While it is more challenging to machine than some other alloys, Inconel 718 can be machined using appropriate techniques and tooling.
7. High Tensile and Yield Strength: The alloy exhibits impressive tensile and yield strengths, contributing to its overall mechanical integrity.

Applications of Inconel 718:

1. Aerospace Industry: Inconel 718 is widely used in the aerospace industry for applications such as jet engines, rocket motors, and aircraft components. Its high strength at elevated temperatures is particularly valuable in these applications.
2. Gas Turbine Components: The alloy is employed in gas turbine components, including turbine blades and discs, where it can withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments.
3. Nuclear Industry: Inconel 718 is used in nuclear reactors and related components due to its resistance to corrosion and high-temperature stability.
4. Oil and Gas Industry: It finds applications in the oil and gas sector, including components for downhole tools, wellhead equipment, and other parts exposed to harsh environments.
5. Automotive Applications: Inconel 718 is used in high-performance automotive applications, such as exhaust systems, due to its heat resistance and durability.
6. Chemical Processing: The alloy is utilized in chemical processing equipment, including vessels and reactors, where corrosion resistance and high-temperature performance are essential.
7. Power Generation: Inconel 718 is employed in components of power generation systems, such as turbine discs and casings.
8. Medical Industry: Some medical applications, such as prosthetic components and medical instruments, may utilize Inconel 718 due to its biocompatibility and strength.