# Alloy 600 UNS N06600: Properties and Applications

## Introduction to Alloy 600

Alloy 600, also known as UNS N06600, is a nickel-chromium alloy that offers excellent resistance to high temperatures and corrosion. This versatile material has become a staple in various industries due to its unique combination of properties.

## Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of Alloy 600 includes:

– Nickel (Ni): 72% minimum
– Chromium (Cr): 14-17%
– Iron (Fe): 6-10%
– Carbon (C): 0.15% maximum
– Manganese (Mn): 1% maximum
– Silicon (Si): 0.5% maximum

– Copper (Cu): 0.5% maximum
– Sulfur (S): 0.015% maximum

## Physical Properties

Alloy 600 exhibits several notable physical properties:

– Density: 8.47 g/cm³
– Melting Range: 1354-1413°C (2470-2575°F)
– Electrical Resistivity: 1.12 μΩ·m
– Thermal Conductivity: 14.9 W/m·K at 100°C
– Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 13.3 μm/m·K (20-100°C)

## Mechanical Properties

The mechanical properties of Alloy 600 vary depending on heat treatment and form:

### Room Temperature Properties

– Tensile Strength: 550-760 MPa
– Yield Strength: 240-550 MPa
– Elongation: 30-55%
– Hardness: 150-220 HB

### Elevated Temperature Properties

Alloy 600 maintains good mechanical strength at high temperatures, with tensile strength of approximately 480 MPa at 600°C.

## Corrosion Resistance

Alloy 600 offers excellent resistance to:

– Oxidation at high temperatures
– Corrosion in various aqueous environments
– Stress corrosion cracking
– Carburization and nitridation
– Chloride ion attack

## Heat Treatment

Common heat treatment processes for Alloy 600 include:

– Annealing: 871-982°C (1600-1800°F)
– Stress Relieving: 649-760°C (1200-1400°F)
– Solution Annealing: 1038-1121°C (1900-2050°F) followed by rapid cooling

## Applications of Alloy 600

Due to its excellent properties, Alloy 600 finds applications in numerous industries:

### Chemical Processing

– Heat exchangers
– Reaction vessels
– Piping systems
– Evaporators

### Aerospace Industry

– Jet engine components
– Combustion chambers
– Afterburner parts

### Nuclear Industry

– Steam generator tubing
– Reactor vessel internals
– Control rod drive mechanisms

### Other Applications

– Heat treating equipment
– Furnace components
– Food processing equipment
– Pharmaceutical manufacturing

## Fabrication and Welding

Alloy 600 can be readily fabricated using standard techniques:

– Machining: Requires rigid setups and sharp tools
– Forming: Can be cold or hot worked
– Welding: Compatible with most common welding methods including TIG, MIG, and resistance welding

## Conclusion

Alloy 600 UNS N06600 remains a highly valuable material for demanding applications that require excellent corrosion resistance and high-temperature strength. Its versatility across multiple industries ensures its continued importance in engineering applications where reliability under extreme conditions is paramount.