Description

Alloy 286 is a nickel-based superalloy known for its excellent strength, oxidation resistance, and corrosion resistance at high temperatures. It is commonly used in various industrial applications where extreme mechanical properties are required.

Applications

Alloy 286 is widely used in gas turbine components, jet engine parts, exhaust systems, fasteners, and other high-temperature applications where exceptional strength, durability, and corrosion resistance are crucial.

Blacksmith Applications

Alloy 286 is commonly used in the manufacturing of high-performance tools and equipment for blacksmithing. Its excellent strength, toughness, and resistance to thermal cycling make it suitable for forging hammers, anvils, tongs, and other blacksmithing tools.

Alloy 286 Forging Temperature

Forging should be done between 2000°F - 2150°F (1093°C to 1177°C), followed by slow cooling in a furnace or insulating material to prevent excessive distortion or cracking.

Alloy 286 Heat Treatment

Alloy 286 Annealing Temperature

Annealing is typically performed at 1800°F (982°C) for a sufficient amount of time, followed by slow cooling in the furnace to relieve internal stresses and improve the material's ductility.

Alloy 286 Normalizing Temperature

Normalizing can be carried out at 2050°F to 2150°F (1121°C to 1177°C) for a proper soak time, followed by air cooling. This process helps refine the microstructure and restore uniformity.

Alloy 286 Hardening Temperature

Hardening is achieved by heating the steel to 1800°F to 1900°F (982°C to 1038°C) and then rapidly quenching in a suitable medium, such as water, oil, or air, to obtain maximum strength.

Alloy 286 Tempering Temperature

Tempering should be performed between 1200°F to 1400°F (649°C to 760°C) to achieve the desired hardness, toughness, and dimensional stability. Proper tempering temperature and time depend on the specific application requirements.

Machinability

Alloy 286 has fair machinability with appropriate cutting tools and techniques. It is a challenging material to machine due to its high strength and work hardening characteristics. Carbide or high-speed steel tools are recommended for efficient machining.

Weldability

Alloy 286 has good weldability. However, it is essential to employ suitable welding processes, pre-weld/post-weld heat treatments, and filler materials to maintain the alloy's mechanical properties and prevent the formation of brittle phases during welding.