APPLICATIONS OF INCONEL 625 IN THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY

APPLICATIONS OF INCONEL 625 IN THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY

Exceptional Elements

INCONEL Alloy 625 is a nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloy that also contains small amounts of iron and niobium. With a minimum of 58% nickel, it benefits significantly from this element's strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The addition of chromium (20–23%) enhances its resistance, particularly against oxidizing media.Molybdenum, comprising 8–10% of the alloy, improves both strength and resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, as well as providing extra protection against non-oxidizing media. The 5% iron adds further strength, while niobium helps prevent intergranular cracking post-welding. The result is a lightweight, strong, and highly workable alloy with excellent corrosion resistance in both oxidizing and non-oxidizing environments.

Strength and Resistance

Thanks to the effects of molybdenum and niobium on the atomic structure, INCONEL 625 does not require heat treatment to enhance its strength; it can be utilized in its annealed state. The alloy exhibits outstanding tensile and corrosion-fatigue strength, making it particularly resistant to chloride-ion stress corrosion cracking.Its corrosion resistance is exceptional, making it a popular choice for offshore and marine applications where it shows virtually no corrosion from seawater or freshwater. It also performs well in alkaline media and neutral salts.INCONEL 625 is well-suited for extreme high-temperature environments and remains effective even in low-temperature corrosive conditions, thanks to its chromium and molybdenum content.

Automotive Applications

The automotive industry demands a combination of power, performance, and sustainability, leading to higher exhaust temperatures and a need for longer service life. Each metal component must balance strength and resistance, addressing concerns like creep, wear, corrosion, and fatigue.INCONEL alloy 625 is particularly well-suited for key automotive components, including:

Exhaust End Pipes

Exhaust end pipes face harsh conditions, constantly exposed to corrosive substances such as rainwater and salt. They require excellent corrosion resistance and must withstand dents and scrapes while maintaining an immaculate appearance.INCONEL 625 is ideal for this application due to its resistance to salt and freshwater damage, lightweight strength, and ability to endure high exhaust temperatures without failure.

Decoupling Elements

Decoupling elements in a car’s exhaust system dampen vibrations and accommodate heat expansion, reducing wear. Durable and stable at high temperatures, these components are crucial for extending the overall service life of the exhaust system.INCONEL 625’s resistance to wet corrosion—especially from road salt—makes it an excellent choice for decoupling elements, ensuring they perform reliably over time.

Lambda Sensors

Lambda sensors, or oxygen sensors, measure the residual oxygen in exhaust gases, optimizing the air/fuel mixture for efficient engine performance. Typically, modern cars have two lambda sensors placed around the catalytic converter to monitor its function.The long operational life of these sensors is critical, and INCONEL 625 is commonly used for the contact springs due to its excellent durability.

Airbag Rupture Discs

With significant advancements in vehicle safety, airbags have become standard. The airbag deployment mechanism relies on a rupture disc that bursts at a specific pressure, ensuring the airbag inflates at the right moment.INCONEL 625 is an optimal material for these discs, providing resistance to extreme temperatures and preventing accidental inflation during a vehicle fire, thus enhancing safety for occupants and emergency responders.If you’d like to learn more about INCONEL 625's applications in the automotive industry and beyond, feel free to reach out. Our team is here to help!