As a supplier of Inconel 686, I am often asked about the formability of this remarkable alloy. Inconel 686 is a nickel – chromium – molybdenum – tungsten alloy that offers outstanding corrosion resistance, high strength, and excellent weldability. In this blog, I will delve into the formability of Inconel 686, exploring the factors that influence it and the processes that can be used to shape this alloy. Inconel 686
Understanding Inconel 686
Before discussing formability, it’s essential to understand the basic properties of Inconel 686. This alloy contains approximately 57% nickel, 22% chromium, 13% molybdenum, and 3% tungsten, along with small amounts of other elements such as iron, cobalt, and manganese. These elements work together to give Inconel 686 its unique combination of properties.
One of the key features of Inconel 686 is its exceptional corrosion resistance. It can withstand a wide range of corrosive environments, including those containing chlorides, sulfuric acid, and seawater. This makes it a popular choice for applications in the chemical processing, oil and gas, and marine industries.
In addition to its corrosion resistance, Inconel 686 also has high strength and good ductility. It can maintain its mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for high – temperature applications such as gas turbines and heat exchangers.
Factors Affecting the Formability of Inconel 686
The formability of Inconel 686 is influenced by several factors, including its chemical composition, microstructure, and the forming process used.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of Inconel 686 plays a crucial role in its formability. The high nickel content provides good ductility and toughness, while the chromium and molybdenum contribute to its corrosion resistance. However, the presence of elements such as tungsten and cobalt can increase the strength of the alloy, which may reduce its formability to some extent.
Microstructure
The microstructure of Inconel 686 also affects its formability. The alloy typically has a face – centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure, which provides good ductility. However, if the microstructure is not properly controlled, it can lead to issues such as cracking during forming. Heat treatment can be used to optimize the microstructure of Inconel 686 and improve its formability.
Forming Process
The choice of forming process is another important factor in determining the formability of Inconel 686. Different forming processes, such as rolling, forging, and extrusion, have different requirements and limitations.
- Rolling: Rolling is a common process used to produce Inconel 686 sheets and plates. During rolling, the alloy is passed through a set of rolls to reduce its thickness. The rolling process can be carried out at room temperature or at elevated temperatures. Cold rolling can increase the strength of the alloy but may reduce its ductility, while hot rolling can improve the formability of the alloy.
- Forging: Forging is a process in which the alloy is shaped by applying pressure using a hammer or a press. Forging can be used to produce complex shapes and improve the mechanical properties of the alloy. However, forging Inconel 686 requires careful control of the temperature and the forging force to avoid cracking.
- Extrusion: Extrusion is a process in which the alloy is forced through a die to produce a continuous shape. Extrusion can be used to produce rods, tubes, and other profiles. The extrusion process requires high pressure and temperature, and it is important to ensure that the alloy has sufficient ductility to be extruded without cracking.
Forming Inconel 686
When forming Inconel 686, it is important to follow some general guidelines to ensure successful results.
Pre – forming Preparation
Before forming, the Inconel 686 material should be cleaned to remove any contaminants such as oil, grease, or dirt. This can help prevent surface defects during forming. Additionally, the material should be inspected for any cracks or other defects that could affect its formability.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is crucial when forming Inconel 686. The alloy has a relatively high melting point, and it is important to heat it to the appropriate temperature range for the forming process. For hot forming processes such as hot rolling and forging, the alloy is typically heated to a temperature between 950°C and 1150°C. Cold forming processes, on the other hand, can be carried out at room temperature, but it may be necessary to use lubricants to reduce friction and prevent cracking.
Lubrication
Lubrication is an important aspect of forming Inconel 686. Using a suitable lubricant can reduce friction between the tool and the alloy, which can improve the formability and surface finish of the product. There are various types of lubricants available, including oil – based, water – based, and solid lubricants. The choice of lubricant depends on the forming process and the specific requirements of the application.
Post – forming Treatment
After forming, the Inconel 686 product may require post – forming treatment to improve its properties. Heat treatment is a common post – forming treatment that can be used to relieve stress, improve the microstructure, and enhance the mechanical properties of the alloy. Annealing is a typical heat treatment process for Inconel 686, which involves heating the alloy to a specific temperature and then cooling it slowly.
Applications of Formed Inconel 686
The formability of Inconel 686 allows it to be used in a wide range of applications. Some of the common applications of formed Inconel 686 include:
- Chemical Processing: Inconel 686 is widely used in the chemical processing industry due to its excellent corrosion resistance. It can be formed into various components such as pipes, valves, and heat exchangers for handling corrosive chemicals.
- Oil and Gas: In the oil and gas industry, Inconel 686 is used in offshore platforms, pipelines, and downhole equipment. Its high strength and corrosion resistance make it suitable for these harsh environments.
- Marine: In the marine industry, Inconel 686 is used for shipbuilding, offshore structures, and marine equipment. It can withstand the corrosive effects of seawater and provide long – term durability.
- Aerospace: Inconel 686 is also used in the aerospace industry for applications such as engine components and structural parts. Its high – temperature strength and corrosion resistance make it an ideal material for these demanding applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the formability of Inconel 686 is an important aspect of its usability in various industries. While the alloy has excellent properties, its formability can be influenced by factors such as chemical composition, microstructure, and the forming process used. By understanding these factors and following the appropriate forming guidelines, it is possible to shape Inconel 686 into a wide range of products with high quality and performance.
Incoloy Alloy 803 If you are interested in purchasing Inconel 686 for your specific application, I encourage you to reach out for a detailed discussion. We can provide you with the necessary information and support to ensure that you get the right material for your needs.
References
- ASM Handbook, Volume 2: Properties and Selection: Nonferrous Alloys and Special – Purpose Materials.
- Inconel 686 Technical Data Sheet.
Jiangsu Tisco Metal Co., Ltd
We’re professional inconel 686 manufacturers and suppliers in China, specialized in providing high quality custom service and OEM service. We warmly welcome you to wholesale inconel 686 for sale here from our factory. For price consultation, contact us.
Address: No.289 Fangcheng Road, Xinwu District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, China
E-mail: Una@tiscosteel.com.cn
WebSite: https://www.jstisco.com/
