Challenges and Solutions in Using Inconel 800 Fasteners!

Inconel 800 is a nickel-iron-chromium alloy that offers excellent resistance to high-temperature corrosion and oxidation. It is commonly used in applications involving elevated temperatures, such as in gas turbines, petrochemical processing, and heat-treating equipment. When using Inconel 800 fasteners, certain challenges may arise, and various solutions can be implemented to address these issues. Here are some challenges and potential solutions:

Challenges:

1. High Cost:
   • Solution: Inconel 800 is relatively expensive compared to other materials. To mitigate costs, consider evaluating the specific requirements of your application and whether a lower-cost alternative with sufficient corrosion resistance can be used.
2. Work Hardening:
   • Challenge: Inconel 800 Fasteners can work harden during manufacturing processes such as cold forming or machining.
   • Solution: Proper tooling and machining techniques should be employed to minimize work hardening. Heat treatments can also be applied to restore the material’s desired mechanical properties.
3. Difficulty in Machining:
   • Challenge: Inconel 800 has a tendency to work harden, making machining challenging.
   • Solution: Use carbide tools with high cutting speeds and heavy cuts. Employing appropriate coolants and lubricants can also help improve machining efficiency.
4. Creep Resistance:
   • Challenge: Inconel 800 is susceptible to creep at elevated temperatures, particularly under high-stress conditions.
   • Solution: Design components with considerations for operating temperatures and stresses. Utilize engineering controls, such as reducing stress levels or employing other materials with higher creep resistance if necessary.
5. Corrosion in Certain Environments:
   • Challenge: While Inconel 800 exhibits excellent corrosion resistance in many environments, it may still be susceptible to certain types of corrosion in specific conditions.
   • Solution: Evaluate the specific corrosion mechanisms at play in the application and consider alternative materials or coatings if necessary. Proper surface finishes and passivation can enhance corrosion resistance.
6. Weldability Challenges:
   • Challenge: Welding Inconel 800 can be challenging due to its high nickel content.
   • Solution: Employ experienced welders and use appropriate welding techniques, such as low heat input and post-weld heat treatment, to maintain the material’s integrity.
7. Limited Availability of Fastener Types:
   • Challenge: The availability of specific fastener types (e.g., bolts, nuts, screws) in Inconel 800 may be limited.
   • Solution: Work closely with suppliers to source the required fasteners, or consider design modifications to accommodate more readily available alternatives.

Conclusion:

Using Inconel 800 fasteners comes with challenges, but with careful consideration of material properties, proper manufacturing techniques, and design modifications, these challenges can be effectively addressed. It’s essential to work closely with material suppliers, adhere to best practices in manufacturing and assembly, and continually assess the performance of the fasteners in the intended application.