Inconel: An Extreme Metal in Precision Machining
Extreme applications require extreme materials. One of the strongest high-performance alloys available in manufacturing is Inconel, but it can be costly and difficult to machine when entrusted to the wrong precision machine shop.
At Arbiser Machine, we have such a wide range of capabilities that we can approach Inconel parts a little differently (and more effectively!) than many shops. But before giving you a taste of our secret sauce, let’s take a deep dive into Inconel.
What Is Inconel?
Inconel is a group of superalloys, which are metals developed for high-temperature and high-stress environments.
Most grades of Inconel are predominantly nickel and chromium-based. Nickel is excellent for formability, ductility, weldability, and corrosion resistance. And chromium is known for its high strength and corrosion resistance.
Together, these elements—combined with other substances like iron, cobalt, titanium, niobium, and molybdenum—create an alloy that can stand up to extreme conditions.
Common Applications for Inconel
Inconel is a popular choice for applications requiring heat tolerance and corrosion resistance. Due to its ability to withstand extreme conditions, it’s commonly found in jet engine, rocket, and turbine parts as well as furnace heat shields.
Our aerospace customers typically request Inconel 625 and 718, but we also occasionally work with Inconel 600 at our precision machine shop. Here’s a quick breakdown of the different Inconel grades:
Inconel 600 is often used in nuclear and automotive applications. Because it has slightly less chromium than Inconel 625 or 718, it’s less corrosion-resistant. It’s also not as strong as its counterparts, so it has a narrower range of applications.
Inconel 625 has the best corrosion resistance of the three alloys listed here. It’s often used in the aerospace, chemical processing, and pollution and waste industries, among several others.
Inconel 718 is the strongest of the three alloys. It has slightly less corrosion resistance than Inconel 625, which precludes it from use in the chemical processing and pollution and waste industries. However, it’s still commonly used for aerospace and automotive parts.
Machining Inconel at Arbiser Machine
The same qualities that make Inconel so strong and durable also make it difficult to machine. Cutting it with traditional precision machining methods, like milling and turning, often requires top-of-the-line ceramic cutting tools or incredibly sharp standard tools, which can increase costs significantly.
That’s why at Arbiser Machine, we generally use waterjet cutting and wire EDM services for Inconel parts. These capabilities are better suited for Inconel because they don’t rely on solid materials (i.e., cutting tools) to make cuts.
Wire EDM uses electrical pulses to produce highly accurate, smooth cuts in even the hardest materials, consistently achieving tolerances of less than +/- 0.001”. Waterjet cutting leverages garnet abrasives to cut hard materials like Inconel with needle-like precision.
If you need Inconel parts for your extreme applications, you can trust Arbiser Machine to deliver. Request a quote today to work with us.