The AL-6XN alloy was originally designed to be a material with resistance to seawater. Since its creation, it has proven to be resistant to a lot of different corrosive environments. The resilience, corrosion resistance, and durability of this material make it ideal for various applications. It proves to be a better and more cost-effective alternative to more high-end nickel-based alloys.
Applications of AL-6XN
The high content of nickel and molybdenum offers more resistance to corrosion and cracking caused by chloride stress. Copper content has been kept at a residual level for better performance in seawater applications. Moreover, the composition of high allow in the AL-6XN alloy tubing protects from crevice corrosion and pitting corrosion. Following are some of the major applications of AL-6XN alloy –
- Water piping systems for nuclear power plants
- Process systems for offshore gas and oil platforms
- Chemical process pipelines and tanks
- Heat exchanger, condenser, piping for crude oil or seawater storage
- Vats, press oils, filter washed in pulp bleaching plants
- Tall oil distillation packing
- Transformer cases that are exposed to marine water
- Food processing equipment
- Pharmaceutical equipment
- Power plant fuel as a scrubber
Benefits Of Using Al-6xn Alloy
Following are some of the main benefits of using AL-6XN alloy tubing –
- It is Cost-Effective
It is often used as an effective alternative to non-metallic materials. The latter materials offer high corrosion resistance but come with high installation and maintenance costs. However, AL-6XN alloy has considerably fewer expenses than a lot of nickel-based alloys.
- It Offers Resistance to Corrosion
This alloy offers high corrosion resistance in acidic as well as alkaline environments. This ability offers protection against contamination and quick degradation of alloy-based components.
- It Comes with As-Welded Specifications
AL-6XM features low carbon and high nitrogen contents. This mitigates the carbides precipitation and secondary phases while welding. Therefore when suitable metal is being used, and the assembly is properly cleaned, as-welded materials can be placed in the process. This alloy can be efficiently welded into the field through a similar procedure used in other austenitic stainless steel.
- It is Highly Functional
The sturdiness and ductility of the AL-6XN alloy make the fabrication process easier both in the shop and field. The weldability and formability of the alloy are significantly better in comparison to duplex stainless steel or high alloy ferritic. And these materials offer similar corrosion resistance abilities.
Final Thoughts
AL-6XN alloy has an extensive application as it is denoted as a 6% moly super austenitic alloy offering chloride resistance found in sports brine, active pharmaceutical substance, barbecue sauce, and ketchup. Moreover, this alloy is an upgrade to 300 series alloy like 3014 and 316L/1.4435. It is identified as the UNS or Unified Numbering System designation of NO03867.
It contains 24% nickel, 6%molybdenum, 22% chromium and 10% nitrogen. There are many manufacturers who offer AL-6XN alloy tubing, but it is up to you to make an informed decision. Ensure that you choose a reputable manufacturer who uses the right chemical composition and high-quality raw materials to make the tubing.