Alloy HR160 UNS N12160: Properties and Applications

# Alloy HR160 UNS N12160: Properties and Applications

## Introduction to Alloy HR160 UNS N12160

Alloy HR160, also known by its UNS designation N12160, is a nickel-chromium-cobalt superalloy designed for high-temperature applications. This advanced material offers exceptional resistance to oxidation, carburization, and sulfidation in extreme environments.

## Chemical Composition

The unique properties of Alloy HR160 stem from its carefully balanced chemical composition:

– Nickel (Ni): 37% (base)
– Chromium (Cr): 28%
– Cobalt (Co): 29%
– Molybdenum (Mo): 2.5%
– Titanium (Ti): 0.5%
– Aluminum (Al): 0.5%
– Carbon (C): 0.05% max
– Iron (Fe): 1.5% max

## Key Properties

Alloy HR160 exhibits several remarkable characteristics that make it suitable for demanding applications:

### High-Temperature Strength

The alloy maintains excellent mechanical properties at temperatures up to 2200°F (1200°C), making it ideal for high-heat environments.

### Oxidation Resistance

With its high chromium content, HR160 forms a protective oxide layer that prevents degradation in oxidizing atmospheres.

### Carburization Resistance

The alloy demonstrates superior resistance to carburizing environments, which is critical in petrochemical processing applications.

### Thermal Stability

HR160 maintains its structural integrity through repeated thermal cycling, minimizing creep and thermal fatigue.

## Mechanical Properties

Property | Value
Tensile Strength | 100-120 ksi (690-830 MPa)
Yield Strength | 60-80 ksi (415-550 MPa)
Elongation | 30-40%
Hardness | 200-250 HB

## Applications of Alloy HR160

Due to its exceptional properties, Alloy HR160 finds use in various demanding industries:

### Petrochemical Industry

– Furnace components
– Reformer tubes
– Heat exchangers
– Catalyst support grids

### Power Generation

– Gas turbine components
– Combustion liners
– Afterburner parts

### Industrial Processing

– Heat treatment fixtures
– Sintering trays
– High-temperature fasteners

## Fabrication and Welding

Alloy HR160 can be fabricated using standard techniques, though it requires special considerations:

– Machining should be performed with carbide tools at moderate speeds
– Welding is possible using matching filler metals and proper shielding gases
– Hot working should be performed between 1800-2100°F (980-1150°C)

## Comparison with Other Alloys

When compared to similar high-temperature alloys, HR160 offers:

– Better oxidation resistance than Alloy 600
– Superior carburization resistance compared to Alloy 800H
– Higher strength at elevated temperatures than Alloy 617

Alloy HR160 UNS N12160 represents an excellent choice for engineers designing components that must withstand extreme temperatures and corrosive environments. Its balanced combination of properties makes it particularly valuable in petrochemical processing, power generation, and industrial heating applications where other materials would fail prematurely.