Overview
Inconel X-750 is a high-strength, Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel known for its excellent performance in extreme temperatures and corrosive environments. Originally developed for the aerospace industry, this alloy’s unique properties make it invaluable in various applications, from gas turbines to nuclear reactors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the chemical composition, mechanical properties, heat treatments, applications, advantages, and disadvantages of Inconel X-750. We’ll also look at pricing, suppliers, and answer some frequently asked questions. So, buckle up as we explore this remarkable material in detail!
Chemical Composition of Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel
Understanding the chemical composition of Inconel X-750 is crucial to appreciate its unique properties. This alloy is primarily composed of nickel and chromium, with other elements adding to its strength and durability.
| Element | Percentage Composition |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | 70.0 min |
| Chromium (Cr) | 14.0-17.0 |
| Iron (Fe) | 5.0-9.0 |
| Titanium (Ti) | 2.25-2.75 |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.40-1.0 |
| Niobium (Nb) | 0.70-1.20 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.0 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.50 max |
| Copper (Cu) | 0.50 max |
| Carbon (C) | 0.08 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.01 max |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.01 max |
The dominant presence of nickel and chromium provides the alloy with its outstanding resistance to oxidation and corrosion, while elements like titanium and aluminum contribute to its high-temperature strength.
The Mechanical Properties of Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel
Inconel X-750 stands out due to its impressive mechanical properties, which make it suitable for demanding applications.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 1,400 MPa (minimum) |
| Yield Strength | 1,000 MPa (minimum) |
| Elongation | 15-20% |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 370-420 HB |
| Impact Toughness | Excellent |
| Creep Resistance | High (up to 704°C or 1300°F) |
| Fatigue Strength | High (good for cyclic stress) |
| Thermal Conductivity | 11.0 W/m·K |
| Electrical Resistivity | 1.3 µΩ·m |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 214 GPa |
| Poisson’s Ratio | 0.31 |
These properties underscore why Inconel X-750 is the go-to material for parts that must withstand high stress and temperatures, offering excellent durability and reliability.
Heat Treatment of Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel
Heat treatment processes are vital in enhancing the performance of Inconel X-750. Here’s a detailed look at the typical heat treatments applied to this alloy.
| Heat Treatment | Temperature Range | Duration | Cooling Method | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solution Annealing | 982-1066°C (1800-1950°F) | 1-2 hours | Air or Water Quenching | To dissolve carbides and gamma prime |
| Precipitation Hardening | 704-871°C (1300-1600°F) | 10-20 hours | Air Cooling | To increase strength and hardness |
| Stress Relieving | 621-648°C (1150-1200°F) | 1-4 hours | Air Cooling | To reduce residual stresses |
Each heat treatment method serves a specific purpose, whether it’s enhancing mechanical properties or relieving internal stresses to improve material performance under operational conditions.
Applications of Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel
Inconel X-750’s versatility means it is used across a variety of industries. Here are some key applications.
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Aerospace | Gas turbine engines, rocket engines, thrust reversers |
| Nuclear | Reactor core components, control rods |
| Oil and Gas | Downhole tools, wellhead components |
| Chemical Processing | Heat exchangers, valve components, springs |
| Automotive | Turbocharger rotors, exhaust systems |
| Power Generation | Steam turbine blades, bolts, and fasteners |
The alloy’s high resistance to oxidation and corrosion, along with its mechanical strength, makes it invaluable in high-stress, high-temperature environments.
Suppliers and Pricing of Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel
Finding reliable suppliers and understanding the cost can significantly impact your project’s budget and timeline. Here’s a snapshot of some suppliers and their pricing.
| Supplier | Region | Pricing (per kg) | Additional Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rolled Alloys | North America | $50-$80 | Custom cutting, fast delivery |
| Special Metals | Global | $45-$75 | Heat treatment, machining |
| VDM Metals | Europe | €40-€70 | Technical support, material testing |
| Haynes International | Global | $50-$85 | Quality certification, consultation |
| ATI Metals | North America | $55-$90 | Custom fabrication, technical advice |
Prices can vary based on the supplier, region, and any additional services required. Always compare and consider long-term partnerships for better deals.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Inconel X-750 Nickel-Chromium Alloy Steel
When choosing a material for your project, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Here’s how Inconel X-750 stacks up.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High-temperature strength | Expensive compared to other alloys |
| Excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance | Difficult to machine |
| Good creep and stress rupture properties | Requires specialized welding techniques |
| Versatile applications | Limited availability in some regions |
| Long-term durability | Heavier than some alternative materials |
While Inconel X-750 offers exceptional benefits, it’s not without its challenges, particularly in terms of cost and machinability.
Comparing Inconel X-750 with Other Alloys
How does Inconel X-750 fare when compared to other high-performance alloys? Let’s see.
| Property | Inconel X-750 | Inconel 718 | Hastelloy X | Stainless Steel 316 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 1,400 MPa | 1,240 MPa | 760 MPa | 580 MPa |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| High-Temperature Performance | Up to 704°C | Up to 700°C | Up to 1200°C | Up to 870°C |
| Cost | High | High | Moderate | Low |
| Machinability | Difficult | Moderate | Moderate | Easy |
| Applications | Aerospace, Nuclear | Aerospace, Oil & Gas | Chemical Processing | General Manufacturing |
Compared to other alloys, Inconel X-750 stands out for its high tensile strength and superior high-temperature performance, though it comes at a higher cost and with machining challenges.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Inconel X-750 used for? | It is used in aerospace, nuclear reactors, oil and gas industries, and chemical processing due to its high strength and resistance to extreme environments. |
| How does Inconel X-750 differ from Inconel 718? | Inconel X-750 offers slightly higher tensile strength and better high-temperature performance, whereas Inconel 718 is easier to machine and more widely available. |
| Can Inconel X-750 be welded? | Yes, but it requires specialized techniques and careful heat treatment to avoid cracking and maintain its properties. |
| Why is Inconel X-750 so expensive? | The high cost is due to the premium raw materials, complex manufacturing processes, and the alloy’s exceptional properties. |
| Is Inconel X-750 magnetic? | No, Inconel X-750 is non-magnetic due to its high nickel content. |
