Nickel Alloy 200 and Nickel Alloy 201 round bars are widely used in various industries. Both are made from commercially pure nickel, offering high strength and resistance to different types of corrosion. Their use depends on the service conditions and requirements of the application. While they seem similar, a few key differences set them apart. Understanding these differences helps choose the right material for the project.
Here’s a clear comparison between Nickel Alloy 200/201 round bars based on their properties, uses, and performance.
What is Nickel Alloy 200?
Nickel Alloy 200 round bar is a commercially pure nickel grade with about 99.6% nickel content. It has low carbon content and offers good mechanical properties. This alloy is known for its toughness, high thermal and electrical conductivity, and resistance to a wide range of corrosive environments.
It performs well in alkaline solutions, neutral salts, and acidic conditions. Nickel Alloy 200 round bars are widely used in chemical processing, electronics, and marine equipment.
What is Nickel Alloy 201?
Nickel Alloy 201 is very similar to Nickel Alloy 200. The main difference lies in its lower carbon content. This small change improves its resistance to graphitization at higher temperatures. This makes it suitable for services above 315°C.
Nickel Alloy 201 round bars are chosen for processes involving high-temperature exposure. They are also used in areas where carbon pick-up must be avoided.
Key Differences Between Nickel Alloy 200 and Nickel Alloy 201 Round Bars
Carbon Content
Nickel Alloy 200 contains a slightly higher amount of carbon than Nickel Alloy 201. This makes Alloy 200 stronger at room temperature but less suitable for higher heat. Alloy 201, with its lower carbon, is designed for high-temperature use.
Temperature Resistance
Nickel Alloy 200 works best in temperatures up to 315°C. Beyond this point, it may undergo graphitization, which weakens its structure. On the other hand, Nickel Alloy 201 can handle temperatures beyond 315°C without losing strength.
Applications
Nickel Alloy 200 round bars are used where strength and corrosion resistance are needed at normal temperatures. These include caustic handling equipment, salt production, and electrical parts.
Nickel Alloy 201 round bars are preferred in applications that involve high temperatures. These include heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and food processing equipment.
Corrosion Resistance
Both alloys resist corrosion in acids and alkalis. However, Alloy 201 performs slightly better in reducing conditions due to its low carbon content. It also resists intergranular attack in high-temperature environments better than Alloy 200.
Mechanical Properties
Nickel Alloy 200 shows higher tensile and yield strength at room temperature. Nickel Alloy 201, because of its low carbon, has slightly lower strength but higher ductility. This makes it easier to form and weld.
Magnetic Properties
Both alloys are ferromagnetic at room temperature. They maintain their magnetic properties even after cold working, which is useful in some electronic and sensor-based applications.
Weldability and Forming
Both alloys are easy to weld and form. Nickel Alloy 201 is slightly easier to work with because of its lower strength and higher ductility. When precision forming is needed, Alloy 201 is often preferred.
For welding, standard methods like TIG, MIG, and spot welding can be used. Care must be taken to avoid contamination during welding, especially for Alloy 201 in high-purity or high-temperature services.
Which one to choose?
The choice between Nickel Alloy 200 and Nickel Alloy 201 round bars depends on temperature and carbon sensitivity.
- Use Nickel Alloy 200 for low to moderate temperature environments.
- Use Nickel Alloy 201 for higher temperatures or when carbon pick-up is a concern.
In many cases, the two can be used interchangeably for similar corrosion environments. But checking the specific service conditions is important before choosing.
Conclusion
Nickel Alloy 200 and Nickel Alloy 201 round bars serve similar roles in industrial applications. Their shared features include high corrosion resistance, good thermal conductivity, and easy fabrication. The key difference is their carbon content and how it affects performance at elevated temperatures.
Nickel Alloy 200 round bars are best for standard conditions. Nickel Alloy 201 round bars handle higher heat without degrading. Choosing the right alloy ensures better performance, longer life, and fewer failures in service.
By understanding the small but important differences between Nickel Alloy 200 Round Bars Vs Nickel Alloy 201 Round Bars, engineers and buyers can make informed decisions that match their operational needs.