The term "superalloy" is used to describe a high-performance alloy specifically developed to extend the life of aircraft components exposed to extreme heat. Superalloys are based on nickel, iron, and cobalt. By adding alloying elements to achieve superfusion of various metal properties, they can work for a long time at high temperatures above 600 ° C and under certain stress, and become a variety of aerospace, petrochemical, racing, and other The pillar material of the industry.
Features and application fields of Inconel 718
Inconel 718 is a precipitation-hardening nickel-chromium-iron alloy containing niobium and molybdenum. It began mass production in 1965. It can solid-dissolve various alloying elements and avoid the precipitation of low-ductility harmful phases. Good plasticity and good processability and microstructure stability make it an ideal choice for industrial applications in many fields. According to statistics, more than half of the total mass of materials used in contemporary aerospace engines are nickel-based superalloys, and the use of Inconel 718 has exceeded one-third of the total nickel-based alloys.
According to the Carnot cycle, running the engine at a higher temperature increases energy efficiency, which in turn makes the engine more energy efficient. From compressors, combustors, and turbines to casings that protect and support engines, and from the many stationary rotating parts in aerospace engines to various bolted fasteners, Inconel 718 is widely used in the manufacture of high-temperature components for aero engines. Especially with today's leading aerospace engine, the Inconel 718 is used more.
The Inconel 718 has become a cornerstone of aerospace applications, but also in nuclear reactors (heat exchanger piping), submarines (propeller blades, quick disconnects, auxiliary propulsion motors), chemical (vessels, pumps, valves, piping), power generation (industrial gas turbines), oil and gas industry (downhole pipelines, wellhead hardware, flare arms), etc. have important applications.
3D printing brings processing and application potential to Inconel 718
Implementing the designs required for nickel-based superalloys using non-3D printing processes can be challenging. When traditional manufacturing methods such as machining, forging or welding are used, annealing is often required before the process begins, and high-temperature corrosion, creep resistance, etc. of the components are affected. Additive manufacturing results of Inconel 718 alloy show that mechanical properties are not sacrificed and can even exceed those of cast or forged parts.
In addition, Inconel 718 is a typical difficult-to-machine material due to its high cutting temperature and serious work hardening. For the complex geometries typically required in aerospace applications, Inconel 718 parts are often difficult and expensive to manufacture.
Aerospace companies are already using 3D printed Inconel 718s in aircraft engine manufacturing. While ultimately achieving fuel and cost savings, design freedom, parts reduction and increased supply chain efficiency have put additive manufacturing in the spotlight for the aerospace industry.
The low-temperature properties of 3D-printed superalloys also have potential applications in piping and housings, low-temperature suspension and support systems, impeller or pump structures, valve stems, cooling pipes, heat pipes, thermal insulation designs, heat exchangers, and gases in high-porosity systems Storage is ideal for high-strength superalloy applications with temperatures ranging from low temperatures of -273°C to high temperatures of 760°C.
If you have 3D printing needs for Inconel 718 material, you can feel free to contact our company for more information.
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