Before you launch a new production line at your manufacturing facility, you'll need to make sure that your equipment is up to the task. When you're working with potentially damaging materials, including dyes and acidic solutions, you need metals that can hold up to the demand. One of the best options in these environments is nickel alloy metal, like alloy 20 or similar metals. Here's a look at what nickel alloys, like that from http://www.jamesduva.com/, are and what they can do for your manufacturing line.
The Basics of Nickel Alloys
Nickel isn't often used in its pure form, despite how hard the metal is. It's typically used as an alloy, which involves creating a mixture of nickel with other types of metal. A nickel alloy will start with a high percentage of nickel, which will then be amended with other types of metal, but the actual metals will vary based on the intended application. Nickel is a popular selection for alloys because it is not as vulnerable to corrosion or heat. You can find nickel alloys in many things, from hand tools to kitchen appliances, and even industrial equipment.
High-Temperature Tolerance
Since nickel alloys can typically stand up to high temperatures without deterioration, it makes an ideal option for stability when you are working in a high-heat manufacturing environment. If any part of your manufacturing process happens in a high-heat environment, nickel alloys can withstand it and ensure the integrity of your equipment.
In addition to preserving the core structure of the metal under heat, nickel alloys are not as susceptible to expansion due to heat. If you choose an alloy that also contains iron, it will provide even more resistance to expansion. Environment such as those where you are relying on a steady flow of hot liquids through an alloy pipe, nickel alloys will ensure that the diameter of the pipe remains consistent with no swelling from heat.
Electrical Resistance
Any alloy containing large amounts of nickel will have an inherent resistance to electrical current when compared to aluminum, silver and other common materials. These alloys are frequently chosen to create the tools and equipment used in most electrical environments. Since the metal won't carry a current, it helps to regulate the risk of electrocution.
Minimal Oxidation Rate
The oxygen that is naturally present in the air can cause metal to oxidize. Nickel oxidizes more slowly than many other metals, making it resistant to corrosion. If your operations involve the use of any liquids that might encourage rust development when met with oxygen, you can opt for an alloy based from nickel.
Shape Memory Benefit
Nickel alloys are one of the most popular choices when looking for something with shape memory. Metals that have shape memory will automatically return to their prior shape when you apply heat to them. This is ideal for some industrial applications where you need to preserve a specific shape.
Easily Customizable
Welding nickel alloys is easier than some metals, because you can get welding materials that are made of a very similar composition. By using a welding material with similar components, you'll get a more solid weld. If you need to have confidence that your welds won't become a weak point in the structure, nickel alloys with a similar welding material can help to contribute future stability.
Even if your manufacturing environment is a demanding one, nickel alloys can make a great core selection for your metal fabrication. Whether you are concerned about corrosion, structural integrity or even electrical conductivity, most nickel alloys make a great choice. As with any alloy, though, make sure that you know exactly what other metals are part of the composition. Each metal that's added can contribute other strengths or weaknesses to the alloy, so take them all into consideration when making your choice.
