Is Inconel more expensive than titanium?
Inconel
The trade name for high-quality nickel-chromium alloys is Inconel. This material can also withstand alloy-type high temperatures (up to 2,000°F) with zero strength loss. This material is very suitable even at low temperatures.
The mechanical properties of Inconel at room temperature are excellent. So you know, Inconel grade 725 has a tensile strength of about 180 ksi; that's twice the strength of structural steel. Other alloys, such as Inconel 718, are toughened to withstand precipitation, making them stronger. Corrosion and its kindred: Corrosion, oxidation, corrosion cracking and crevice corrosion do not affect Inconel.
Inconel's excellent properties meet the needs of demanding applications. However, materials like Inconel are more expensive than titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Machining Inconel
Due to its high strength, processing is challenging. Inconel is so hard that cutting tools can become damaged during machining and the material can twist and bend.
Immersing Inconel in a solution reduces the material's hardness and prevents cutting tool wear. For machining Inconel, ceramic tools are recommended as it provides fast and uninterrupted cuts, making the workflow more manageable. Pecking should be avoided as this can make the job challenging.
Welding Inconel
Inconel is not easy to weld due to cracks. But Inconel alloys can be welded like Inconel 625 - an alloy that is easy to fill quickly and is usually welded using tungsten inert gas (TIG). This welding technique usually does not require filler but works well for joining Inconel. That's why it's recommended.
Uses of Inconel
Inconel is the material of choice when harsh temperatures and corrosion are issues, especially when other metals are not resistant to oxidation and deformation caused by high temperatures.
Inconel has excellent high temperature and chemical resistance and is used in exhaust systems for racing cars, turbines, jet engines, and in the oil and gas, aerospace, and marine sectors where heavy machinery components are required.
