- This topic is empty.
-
Posts
-
Nickel-based superalloys play a critical role in high-performance engineering, and IN718 powder is among the most widely utilized in additive manufacturing (AM) for demanding industries. Hangrui (Shanghai) Advanced Material Technologies Co., LTD specializes in producing high-quality metal powders, including IN718, to support aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical applications.
IN718 powders, a nickel-rich superalloy, are primarily composed of nickel with alloying elements such as chromium, iron, niobium, molybdenum, and trace elements. This combination ensures exceptional mechanical resilience, corrosion tolerance, and high-temperature performance, making it ideal for powder bed fusion (PBF) and direct energy deposition (DED) processes.
This article provides an in-depth overview of IN718 nickel-based powders, including: material properties, microstructure, processing tips, real-world applications, and optimization strategies for additive manufacturing.
Composition and Key Material Properties
Chemical Composition of IN718 Powder
Element Typical Weight % Function Ni 50–55 Base matrix, ductility and strength Cr 17–21 Oxidation and corrosion resistance Fe 17–21 Structural stability Nb 4.75–5.5 Strengthens high-temperature performance Mo 2.8–3.3 Enhances creep resistance Ti + Al 0.65–1.15 Precipitation strengthening C + B + Other trace elements <0.1 Microstructure optimization Mechanical Properties
Property Typical Value Significance Density 8.19 g/cm³ Ensures dimensional stability in AM Ultimate Tensile Strength 1,240 MPa High-strength applications at elevated temperature Yield Strength 1,030 MPa Resistance to plastic deformation Elongation 12–18% Provides ductility and toughness Hardness (HV) 350–380 Surface wear resistance These properties make IN718 powders suitable for critical aerospace components, high-performance automotive parts, and energy applications.
Microstructure and Strengthening Mechanisms
Key Phases
-
γ (Gamma) Matrix – Nickel-based ductile matrix for structural support.
-
γ’ and γ’’ Precipitates – Strengthening phases providing creep and fatigue resistance.
-
MC and M23C6 Carbides – Enhance wear resistance and stability at high temperature.
-
Controlled Laves Phase – Minimized to avoid brittleness and improve toughness.
Microstructure Control
-
Powder quality: Spherical morphology ensures uniform packing and reduces porosity.
-
Additive manufacturing parameters: Laser power, scanning speed, and layer thickness influence microstructure and mechanical properties.
-
Heat treatment: Solution heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) optimize precipitate distribution.
Processing Tips for IN718 Powders
Additive Manufacturing Guidelines
-
Powder Bed Fusion (PBF): Ensure uniform powder layers, proper laser power, and scanning strategy.
-
Direct Energy Deposition (DED): Maintain melt pool stability, feed rate, and layer control.
-
Powder Handling: Store in inert, dry environments to prevent oxidation.
Recommended Heat Treatments
Method Parameters Purpose Solution Heat Treatment 620℃ ±10℃ / 8h / Air Cooling (AC) Dissolves precipitates, homogenizes microstructure Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) + Aging HIP: 980–1060℃ / 1h / AC; Aging: 720℃ ±10℃ / 8h / FC Eliminates porosity, enhances mechanical strength Proper heat treatment improves tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and dimensional stability.
Real-World Applications
Aerospace
-
Turbine blades and vanes – Require high creep resistance and temperature tolerance.
-
Jet engine components – Structural integrity under cyclic thermal stress.
-
Rocket propulsion parts – Extreme temperature and stress resistance.
Automotive
-
Turbocharger components – Strength and thermal fatigue resistance.
-
High-performance engine parts – Weight reduction with mechanical reliability.
-
Exhaust system components – Corrosion resistance under high temperatures.
Energy Sector
-
Gas turbines – High temperature and creep resistance.
-
Heat exchangers – Structural stability in harsh conditions.
-
Power generation rotors – Long-term durability and precision.
Medical Applications
-
Orthopedic implants – Biocompatibility and mechanical reliability.
-
Surgical instruments – Precision and wear resistance.
-
Dental frameworks – Complex shapes via additive manufacturing.
Troubleshooting and Optimization
Challenge Cause Solution Porosity in AM parts Inadequate layer density or laser power Optimize laser parameters and layer thickness Cracking Residual stress, improper preheating Adjust preheating temperature, optimize scanning strategy Surface roughness Powder morphology, layer bonding Post-process machining or polishing Laves phase formation Excess Nb, uncontrolled cooling Control composition and heat treatment
FAQ
Q1: Can IN718 powders be used for both PBF and DED?
A1: Yes, Hangrui IN718 powders are optimized for both additive manufacturing technologies.Q2: What particle size is recommended for PBF?
A2: Typically 15–45 µm spherical powder for uniform layer deposition.Q3: How should IN718 powders be stored?
A3: In dry, inert environments to prevent oxidation and moisture contamination.Q4: What heat treatment yields the best mechanical properties?
A4: HIP followed by aging is recommended for eliminating porosity and enhancing strength.Q5: Are these powders suitable for medical implants?
A5: Yes, they meet biocompatibility and mechanical requirements for medical applications.
Conclusion
IN718 nickel-based powders from Hangrui offer high performance, reliability, and versatility across aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical industries. By understanding material properties, microstructure, and processing techniques, engineers can fully leverage IN718 for additive manufacturing and powder metallurgy applications.
Hangrui’s powders combine high purity, spherical morphology, and controlled composition, ensuring superior AM performance. Proper processing, heat treatment, and handling unlocks the full potential of IN718, delivering durable, high-strength, and corrosion-resistant components for critical applications.
http://www.powdmax.com
Hangrui (Shanghai) Advanced Material Technologies Co.,Ltd. -
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.