Inconel
Inconel is a family of nickel-chromium superalloys, including 600, 625 and 718, that keep high strength and resist oxidation and corrosion at temperatures up to around 1,000 °C. It is used in turbines, exhausts, furnaces, heat exchangers and oil and gas equipment.
What it is
Inconel 600 resists oxidation and chloride stress corrosion; 625 adds molybdenum and niobium for strength and outstanding corrosion resistance; 718 is precipitation hardened for very high strength up to about 650 °C, widely used in aerospace and downhole tools.
Inconel work-hardens rapidly, making it one of the most challenging alloys to machine.
Typical applications
- Gas turbine and jet engine parts
- Exhaust and heat shield components
- Furnace and heat-treatment fixtures
- Oil and gas valves and downhole tools
- Chemical and nuclear components
Materials & grades
- Inconel 600 (UNS N06600)
- Inconel 625 (N06625)
- Inconel 718 (N07718)
- Inconel X-750
Points to consider
- Slow machining with rigid setups and carbide or ceramic tools.
- Specify heat-treatment condition for 718 (solution annealed or aged).
- Material traceability and certificates are usually mandatory.
- High cost; optimise stock size.
Frequently asked questions
What is Inconel used for?
High-temperature, high-stress parts such as turbine components, exhausts, furnace fixtures and oil and gas tools.
Which Inconel grade should I choose?
600 for oxidation resistance, 625 for corrosion resistance and weldability, 718 for maximum strength.
Why is Inconel difficult to machine?
It work-hardens quickly and stays strong at high cutting temperatures, causing rapid tool wear.