1. What is the difference between high-purity nickel (Ni200, Ni201, N4, N6) and Inconel 718?
Answer:
Ni200, Ni201, N4, N6 are commercially pure nickel grades with 99.9%+ purity. They offer excellent corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. Ni201 has lower carbon content for improved ductility and welding performance.
Inconel 718 is a nickel-chromium alloy with additional elements like iron, niobium, and molybdenum, providing high strength, fatigue resistance, and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures. It is primarily used in aerospace and high-temperature applications.
2. What industries use these nickel rods?
Answer: High-purity nickel rods (Ni200, Ni201, N4, N6) are widely used in electronics, chemical processing, battery manufacturing, and corrosion-resistant equipment. Inconel 718 rods are used in aerospace, gas turbines, nuclear reactors, and high-strength mechanical components.
3. How does the purity of nickel affect its performance?
Answer: Higher purity (≥99.9%) reduces impurities that can cause embrittlement or corrosion. It ensures excellent ductility, thermal and electrical conductivity, and uniform corrosion resistance, making it suitable for chemical and electronic applications.
4. Can these nickel rods be welded or machined easily?
Answer: Yes, Ni200 and Ni201 have excellent weldability using TIG, MIG, or resistance welding. Inconel 718 requires specialized welding procedures due to its high strength and potential for cracking; post-weld heat treatment is often necessary to maintain mechanical properties.
5. How should these nickel rods be stored to prevent degradation?
Answer: Store in a dry, clean, and temperature-controlled environment. Avoid exposure to moisture, acidic substances, or chlorides. Protective coatings or packaging can prevent surface oxidation and maintain corrosion resistance during storage.
