Inconel alloy 718 is an excellent candidate for additive manufacturing. It is a nickel-chromium superalloy that can be machined, water-jeted and laser ground to shape. It’s a strong and corrosion-resistant alloy that has great fabrication characteristics, making it a go-to metal for high-performance applications.
In the aerospace industry, engineers work hard to improve the performance and reliability of their engines. They need materials that can handle the rigors of high-speed flight, as well as withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures.
Superalloys like inconel alloy 718 provide an excellent balance between cost and performance. They’re also able to withstand the rigors of high-temperature, corrosive environments, which makes them a popular choice for jet engine components and airframe parts.
Inconel alloy 718 is used in many types of aerospace applications, including the exhaust valves of NHRA Top Fuel drag racing engines. It’s also used in high-speed airframe components and bolts and fasteners for gas turbine engines.
Alloy 718 exhibits significant tensile and yield strength at room temperature as well as high fatigue resistance. It’s a preferred material for a variety of applications that require a combination of rupture life, notch rupture and rupture ductility.
Alloy 718 has a very poor age hardening response, which means it’s easy to weld and resists spontaneous hardening during heating and cooling. This makes it ideal for a variety of welding processes, including gas tungsten arc welding.
