What is the difference between INCONEL X750 and ss316?
Inconel X750 vs SS 316 – What's the Difference
In high temperature environments, choosing the right material is critical. Two popular metals that come to mind are Inconel X750 and SS 316. While both materials exhibit excellent corrosion resistance in high temperature applications, they both have their limitations and unique properties. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the differences between Inconel X750 and SS 316 to help you make an informed choice in selecting the right material for your project.
Differences Between Inconel X750 and SS 316
Composition
Inconel X750 is a nickel-chromium alloy with trace amounts of aluminum, titanium, and iron. It is a precipitation-hardening alloy that offers high strength and excellent high temperature oxidation resistance. SS 316, on the other hand, is a molybdenum-containing austenitic stainless steel with significant additions of nickel and chromium. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments.
Strength and Durability
Inconel X750 and SS 316 exhibit high strength and durability. However, Inconel X750 has excellent strength and creep resistance at high temperatures, making it ideal for gas turbines, nuclear reactors, and rocket engines. On the other hand, SS 316 has good strength and toughness at low temperatures, making it suitable for cryogenic applications.
Corrosion Resistance
When it comes to corrosion resistance, both Inconel X750 and SS 316 are excellent choices for high-temperature environments. However, Inconel X750 has better resistance to oxidation and pitting in high-temperature steam and gas environments. On the other hand, SS 316 excels in corrosive environments containing chlorides and acids.
Cost
While both Inconel X750 and SS 316 are high-quality materials that are expensive, Inconel X750 is generally more expensive than SS 316. This is due to its unique composition and higher nickel content, which makes it more challenging to process and fabricate.
Weldability
Inconel X750 and SS 316 have different welding processes and limitations. Inconel X750 requires precise welding process as it is prone to hot cracking and porosity. On the other hand, SS 316 is more forgiving in welding process and exhibits excellent weldability.
