Super Alloy

What is Superalloy?

Superalloys - metal alloys, which reflect their complex alloyed structure, have become one of the main engineering materials for a long time. They feature extremely high elevated temperature strength, and therefore often are referred to as high-temperature superalloys (HTSA) or heat-resistant superalloys (HRSA). The history of superalloys started with the development of gas-turbine engines that required reliable materials for high operating temperature ranges. As a result of intensive research and progress in metallurgy, modern superalloys (SA) provide a long service life for working temperatures more than 1000°C.

What is a superalloy used for?

A superalloy is used for situations where high-performance and temperature equipment is necessary. Where other alloys would melt, super alloy would be able to continue. The likes of rocket and jet engines need superalloy. Power plants and other areas of the oil and gas industry apply superalloy. Understandably, the largest superalloy consumers today are aero- and marine engine producers. Superalloys are also very common in the medical industry, which effectively use them for prosthetic implants in orthopedic surgery. In addition, superalloys have become widespread in power generation and the oil and gas industries as crucial materials for essential parts of various devices.

Superalloy Machining

Exceptional high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance are the undeniable advantages of superalloys. However, there are two sides to the coin: superalloys are not only highly priced, but their machinability is poor, which can pose challenges to manufacturing. The specific cutting force that characterizes the resistance of the material to chip removal and defines the mechanical load on a cutting tool is high for superalloys. Although the main difficulty is heat, superalloys have poor thermal conductivity. Elemental and loose chips, which are generally generated when machining superalloys, do not provide adequate heat dissipation from the cutting zone. A tendency to work hardening makes the situation worse.

Kesu have experience in the intricate machining of super alloys such as Inconel and Titanium. Inconel is a high-strength superalloy resistant to corrosion, high pressure and extreme temperatures. These characteristics make Inconel an ideal choice for use in extreme environments such as aerospace and marine with its resistance to salt.

For aerospace engine applications it is essential to use materials such as Inconel with the ability to retain strength and resist corrosion under the extreme temperatures.

Inconel alloys are ideal for use in a wide range of aerospace components such as bolts, casings, rings, spacers, sheet metal parts and a multitude of components for turbine engines.

If you have any projects with superalloy need help, just send 2D and 3D drawings for us to quote.