What is the difference between Inconel and alloy?
Inconel and Incoloy are two different families of nickel-based alloys originally developed by Specialty Metals Corporation (which owns the Inconel and Incoloy trademarks).
Incoloy grades are nickel-based alloys primarily alloyed with chromium. There are currently over a dozen different grades in the Incoloy range, but the two most widely used Incoloy grades are Incoloy 825 and Incoloy 925.
Inconel grades are nickel-based alloys, again primarily alloyed with chromium. However, they typically have a much higher nickel content than Incoloy grades, providing improved performance at higher temperatures while retaining more strength. However, they are generally more expensive due to the increased nickel content compared to Incoloy alloys. There are up to 20 different grades in the Inconel range, but Inconel 718 and Inconel 625 are probably the most well-known and used.
Inconel 625 is less strong but has excellent corrosion resistance to a variety of harsh environments, meaning it is commonly used for components in the chemical processing industry. Inconel 725 is similar to Inconel 625 in composition and corrosion resistance. However, subtle alloy additions and an additional heat treatment process double its strength.
Inconel 718 is a stronger grade that retains most of its strength at elevated temperatures. As such, it is widely used in aerospace applications such as turbines, as well as in a range of oil and gas end uses.
GNEE stocks alloy 625 and alloy 718 round bars in diameters 5/8"-10" (15.87-254 mm) and alloy 725 round bars in diameters 1"-4" (25.4-101.6 mm).
