Inconel alloy 600 and Inconel alloy 601 are widely used superalloys, renowned for their excellent high-temperature properties.
The primary distinction between these alloys is that Inconel 601 contains more chromium than Inconel 600, enhancing its oxidation resistance.
This article will explore the similarities and differences between these two alloys across several key aspects.
By examining these properties, you will be better equipped to select the appropriate alloy and utilize their features to enhance the reliability and performance of your equipment.
Continue reading to discover more.
INCONEL® (nickel-chromium-iron) alloy 600 (UNS N06600 / W.Nr. 2.4816) is a standard engineering material for applications which require resistance to corrosion and heat. The alloy also has excellent mechanical properties and presents the desirable combination of high strength and good workability.
What is Inconel Alloy 601?
INCONEL® nickel-chromium-iron alloy 601 (UNS N06601 / W.Nr. 2.4851) is a general-purpose engineering material for applications that require resistance to heat and corrosion. An outstanding characteristic of INCONEL alloy 601 is its resistance to hightemperature oxidation.
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Chemical Composition
Here’s a comparison table for the chemical composition of Inconel 600 and Inconel 601:
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Corrosion Resistance
As observed from their compositions, Inconel 601 has a lower nickel content compared to Inconel 600 but contains a higher amount of chromium, along with added aluminum.
Nickel significantly enhances the corrosion resistance of alloys, although its effectiveness against oxidative environments is somewhat limited.
Chromium, on the other hand, is an excellent antioxidant. When exposed to oxygen, chromium forms an oxide film on the metal surface, which prevents further oxidation. This is why chromium is a crucial component in nearly all superalloys.
The substantial chromium content in Inconel 601 ensures superior oxidation resistance, particularly at high temperatures, compared to Inconel 600. The addition of aluminum further boosts the alloy’s oxidation resistance.
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Mechanical Behavior
Both Inconel 600 and Inconel 601 are solid solution strengthened alloys. Apart from their differences in nickel, chromium, and aluminum content, their chemical compositions are nearly identical. As a result, when in the same condition (solution treated), their mechanical properties are almost identical, with no significant differences.
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Physical Properties
| Inconel 600 | Inconel 601 | |
|---|---|---|
| Density, g/cm³ | 8.47 | 8.11 |
| Density, lb/in.³ | 0.306 | 0.293 |
| Melting Range, °F | 2470-2575 | 2480-2571 |
| Melting Range, °C | 1354-1413 | 1360-1411 |
| Permeability at 200 oersted (15.9 kA/m) | 1.010 | 1.003 |
| Curie Temperature, °F | -192 | <-320 |
| Curie Temperature, °C | -124 | <-196 |
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Heat Treatment
Due to their distinct strengthening mechanisms—solid solution strengthening for Monel 400 and precipitation strengthening for Monel K-500—the final heat treatments for these alloys differ significantly.
Monel 400 undergoes solid-solution treatment to fully dissolve the solid-solution strengthening elements into the alloy matrix. In contrast, Monel K-500 uses aging treatment during the final heat treatment to precipitate the strengthening phase fully, thereby achieving optimal strengthening.
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Application
The Inconel 600 alloy is used extensively in the chemical industry for its strength and corrosion resistance. Applications include heaters, stills, bubble towers and condensers for processing of fatty acids; evaporator tubes, tube sheets and flaking trays for the manufacture of sodium sulfide; and equipment for handling abietic acid in the manufacture of paper pulp.
Alloy 601 is a standard material of construction for various types of thermal-processing equipment. Industrial-heating applications include baskets, trays, and fixtures for annealing, carburizing, carbonitriding, nitriding and other heat-treating operations. In industrial furnaces, the alloy is used for radiant tubes, muffles, retorts, flame shields, strand-annealing tubes, woven-wire conveyor belts, chain curtains, burner nozzles, and electrical resistance heating elements. Other thermal-processing applications are thermocouple protection tubes, furnace-atmosphere generators, and infrared radiant screens.
Because Inconel 601 focuses on improving the oxidation resistance of the alloy, its other corrosion resistance is not as good as Inconel 600. This also leads to the general application of Inconel 601 in some specific situations, and its application range is not as good as that of Inconel 600.
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Main Standards
Here’s a comparison table for the standards of Inconel alloy 600 and Inconel alloy 601:
Inconel Alloy 600 vs Inconel Alloy 601 Cost
In theory, Inconel 600 and Inconel 601 have similar costs. However, Inconel 600 is more widely used and more readily available in the market.
This results in Inconel 600 being less expensive. Therefore, if Inconel 600 meets your requirements, it may be the more cost-effective choice.
Conclusion
In terms of antioxidant properties, Inconel 601 outperforms Inconel 600. Aside from this, the two alloys are quite similar.
Inconel 600 is more commonly used due to its wider range of applications.
At HZW, we produce high-quality Inconel 600 and Inconel 601 alloy products. If you have any needs, please feel free to contact us.
