1.Does Inconel 625 require annealing after cold working?
Yes, Inconel 625 generally requires annealing after cold working. Cold working increases hardness and strength but also introduces residual stresses and reduces ductility. A typical full anneal is performed at 980–1100°C (1800–2010°F) followed by rapid cooling (air or water quenching) to restore ductility, toughness, and corrosion resistance, and to minimize sensitization effects.
2.What are the common supply forms (plate, bar, tube, etc.) for this alloy?
Inconel 625 is commonly supplied in a wide range of forms, including:
Plate and sheet
Strip and foil
Round bar, hexagonal bar, and square bar
Seamless and welded pipe/tube
Forgings and forged billets
Wire and rod
Fittings, flanges, and fasteners (bolts, nuts, washers)
3.What is the fatigue resistance of this alloy?
Inconel 625 exhibits excellent fatigue resistance, especially at elevated temperatures and in corrosive environments. Its high nickel-chromium content and the formation of a stable oxide layer contribute to good fatigue crack growth resistance. Fatigue performance is typically characterized by:
High endurance limit compared to many stainless steels and carbon steels
Good high-cycle fatigue (HCF) and low-cycle fatigue (LCF) strength
Retention of fatigue strength at temperatures up to approximately 650–700°C (1200–1290°F)
Sensitivity to surface finish, notches, and residual stresses, which can reduce fatigue life in service
