nikkellegeringen

Nickel alloys are metallic alloys in which nickel is the dominant element. In Dutch, nikkel legering refers to nickel alloys. They typically contain nickel in the majority, with alloying elements such as chromium, molybdenum, titanium, copper, or iron added to improve properties. This class includes both commercially pure nickel (used for corrosion resistance and ductility) and a broad range of nickel-based alloys whose properties are tailored for demanding service. Nickel alloys are valued for strength, toughness, and especially their corrosion and heat resistance in harsh environments.

Major families include nickel-based superalloys designed for high-temperature strength in aerospace and power generation; nickel-copper alloys (Monel) with seawater corrosion resistance; nickel-iron alloys (including low-expansion types and high-temperature grades); and nickel-titanium shape memory alloys (Nitinol) used for actuators. Common alloying elements include chromium, aluminum, titanium, and molybdenum to boost oxidation resistance and mechanical properties.

Properties: Ni-based alloys withstand high temperatures, resist carburization and oxidation, maintain strength under thermal cycling, and resist corrosion in acidic and chloride environments. Ductility, workability, and machinability vary by alloy; many are heat-treatable to optimize hardness and strength. Nickel has a relatively high melting point and corrosion resistance, with weakly paramagnetic behavior.

Production and standards: Nickel is refined from ore and purified by electrolytic methods before alloying. Nickel alloys are produced by melting and alloying, often using vacuum induction or vacuum arc remelting, followed by forming and heat treatment. They are specified by various standards, including ASTM, ISO, and UNS designations, which encode composition ranges and mechanical properties for each alloy.

Applications: Nickel alloys are widely used in aerospace and gas turbines, chemical processing equipment, oil and gas and marine systems, power generation components, and electrical and electronic devices. Recycling and end-of-life management are important due to the value of nickel and additives.