Jan 22 2013
Topics Covered
IntroductionChemical CompositionPhysical PropertiesFabrication and Heat Treatment Machinability Forming Cold WorkingApplications
Introduction
Super alloys are also known as high performance alloys. They contain many elements in a variety of combinations so as to achieve the desired result. These alloys can function in very high temperature environments, in severe mechanical stress environments, and also where high surface stability is required. They have good creep and oxidation resistance.
Strengthening of super alloys is performed by solid-solution hardening, work hardening, and precipitation hardening methods.
Nimonic AP1™ is a mainly nickel-cobalt-chromium alloy with a mixture of aluminum molybdenum, and titanium, which provides high temperature strength. It is precipitation hardenable. This alloy can be produced using powder metallurgy from atomized powder, which is then hot isostatic pressed (HIP) into a compact shape.
The following datasheet will provide more details about Nimonic AP1™.
Chemical Composition
The following table shows the chemical composition of Nimonic AP1™.
| Element |
Content (%) |
| Cobalt, Co |
17 |
| Chromium, Cr |
14.8 |
| Molybdenum, Mo |
5 |
| Aluminum, Al |
4 |
| Titanium, Ti |
3.5 |
| Zirconium, Zr |
0.04 |
| Carbon, C |
0.02 |
| Boron, B |
0.02 |
| Oxygen, O |
0.014 |
| Nickel, Ni |
Remainder |
Physical Properties
The physical properties of Nimonic AP1™ are outlined in the following table.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Density |
7.99 g/cm³ |
0.289 lb/in³ |
| Melting point |
1315°C |
2400°F |
Fabrication and Heat Treatment
Machinability
Traditional machining methods that are used for iron-based alloys can be used for Nimonic AP1™. During high-speed operations such as grinding, turning, or milling, water-base coolants are preferred. The use of heavy lubricants while drilling, tapping, broaching or boring is recommended. In cases where turning with a continuous cut is performed, carbide tools are suitable.
Forming
Nimonic AP1™ has good ductility and can be easily formed using all the conventional methods. Powerful equipment is needed for this process.
Cold Working
Cold working can be performed using standard tooling. To minimize galling and provide a neat finish, soft die materials containing bronze and zinc alloys are recommended. However, the life of the die is short.
Applications
Nimonic AP1™ is mainly used in gas turbine hot section components and other similar applications, which primarily require high temperature strength and oxidation resistance.