INCONEL® Alloy 686: Comprehensive Product Introduction
Introduction to INCONEL® Alloy 686
INCONEL® alloy 686 is a versatile nickel-chromium-molybdenum-tungsten alloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance in a wide range of aggressive environments. Developed as an upgrade over traditional nickel alloys, INCONEL® 686 offers superior resistance to localized corrosion, pitting, and crevice corrosion. This article provides a detailed overview of INCONEL® alloy 686, covering its chemical composition, mechanical properties, performance at different temperatures, corresponding grades, industry applications, available forms, sizes, and production standards across various countries.
Chemical Composition of INCONEL® Alloy 686
INCONEL® alloy 686 is formulated with precise elements to achieve its corrosion-resistant properties:
| Element | Composition (%) |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | 58.0 min |
| Chromium (Cr) | 20.0-23.0 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 15.0-17.0 |
| Tungsten (W) | 3.0-4.4 |
| Iron (Fe) | 5.0 max |
| Cobalt (Co) | 1.0 max |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.0 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.50 max |
| Carbon (C) | 0.020 max |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.015 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.010 max |
Mechanical Properties of INCONEL® Alloy 686
INCONEL® alloy 686 exhibits robust mechanical properties suitable for demanding applications:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 760 MPa (110 ksi) min |
| Yield Strength (0.2% offset) | 345 MPa (50 ksi) min |
| Elongation | 40% min |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 200-250 (varies with heat treatment) |
| Density | 8.68 g/cm³ |
Performance at Different Temperatures
INCONEL® alloy 686 maintains its corrosion resistance and mechanical properties across a wide range of temperatures:
| Temperature Range | Performance |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | High resistance to corrosion and mechanical strength |
| Elevated Temperatures (up to 1000°C / 1832°F) | Retains strength and oxidation resistance |
| Cryogenic Temperatures | Maintains ductility and toughness |
Corresponding Grades in Different Countries
INCONEL® alloy 686 is recognized by various grades in different countries and regions:
| Country/Region | Grade |
|---|---|
| USA | UNS N06686 |
| Germany | 2.4606 |
| France | – |
| UK | – |
| Japan | – |
| China | – |
Standard Forms, Sizes, and Production Standards
Forms and Sizes
INCONEL® alloy 686 is available in various forms and sizes to meet industrial requirements:
| Form | Size Range |
|---|---|
| Sheets | Thickness: 0.1 mm – 50 mm |
| Plates | Thickness: 0.3 mm – 100 mm |
| Bars | Diameter: 5 mm – 300 mm |
| Wire | Diameter: 0.1 mm – 10 mm |
| Tubes | Outer Diameter: 6 mm – 200 mm |
| Pipes | Outer Diameter: 10 mm – 300 mm |
| Fittings | Various configurations as per standards |
| Forgings | Various shapes and sizes as per standards |
Production Standards
INCONEL® alloy 686 conforms to international production standards:
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ASTM B462 | Forgings |
| ASTM B564 | Bars and forgings |
| ASTM B574 | Rods |
| ASTM B575 | Plates and sheets |
| ASTM B619/B622 | Welded and seamless pipes and tubes |
| ASTM B366 | Fittings |
Industry Applications of INCONEL® Alloy 686
INCONEL® alloy 686 is widely utilized across various industries due to its superior corrosion resistance and mechanical properties:
- Chemical Processing: Reactors, vessels, and piping systems handling acids, alkalis, and mixed chemicals.
- Oil and Gas: Equipment in sour gas environments, including downhole components and pipelines.
- Pulp and Paper: Digesters, bleach plants, and recovery boilers.
- Power Generation: Flue gas desulfurization systems, scrubbers, and heat exchangers.
- Marine: Propeller shafts, seawater cooling systems, and marine exhaust systems.
Advantages of INCONEL® Alloy 686
- Superior Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to localized corrosion and pitting.
- High Strength: Maintains mechanical integrity in harsh environments.
- Versatility: Suitable for both high and low-temperature applications.
- Longevity: Provides long-term reliability in corrosive environments.
Conclusion
INCONEL® alloy 686 stands as a high-performance alloy designed to excel in corrosive environments where traditional materials fall short. With its unique combination of chemical composition, mechanical properties, and adherence to international standards, it serves critical applications across global industries. Engineers and designers seeking durability and reliability in aggressive chemical and marine environments can confidently consider INCONEL® alloy 686 for their projects.
For detailed technical specifications and further inquiries, referencing specific product data sheets and consulting with manufacturers is recommended.
This comprehensive introduction and detailed data sheet provide a thorough overview of INCONEL® alloy 686, emphasizing its chemical composition, mechanical properties, performance characteristics at different temperatures, applications, and advantages in demanding industrial environments across various countries.