Alloy 601 (Inconel 601)

UNS N06601

Tensile Strength
≥ 550 MPa (80 ksi)
Yield Strength (0.2%)
≥ 240 MPa (35 ksi)
Elongation
≥ 30%
Hardness
≤ 25 HRC

Overview

Nickel-chromium-iron alloy with aluminum addition for exceptional oxidation resistance up to 1260°C. The aluminum forms a tightly adherent oxide layer that provides outstanding resistance to carburization, sulfidation, and metal dusting — critical performance advantages in petrochemical furnace and reformer applications. Superior to Alloy 600 in high-temperature corrosion resistance.

Chemical Composition (wt%)

ElementMinMax
Ni (Nickel)5863
Cr (Chromium)2125
Fe (Iron)1318
Al (Aluminum)11.7
C (Carbon)0.1
Mn (Manganese)1
Si (Silicon)0.5

Mechanical Properties

PropertyValueCondition
Tensile Strength≥ 550 MPa (80 ksi)
Yield Strength (0.2%)≥ 240 MPa (35 ksi)
Elongation≥ 30%
Hardness≤ 25 HRCannealed
Density8.11 g/cm³

Physical Properties

PropertyValue
Melting Range1300 – 1370 °C
Thermal Conductivity11.2 W/m·K (at 23°C)
Max Service Temp1260°C

Corrosion Resistance

Outstanding oxidation resistance up to 1260°C — aluminum oxide layer provides protection far beyond standard stainless steels. Excellent resistance to carburization, carbonitriding, and metal dusting in petrochemical environments. Good resistance to sulfidation and molten salts. Not designed for aqueous corrosion — strength is high-temperature gaseous environments.

Typical Applications

Ethylene cracking furnace tubesSteam reformer tubes and pigtailsThermal oxidizer combustion chambersRadiant tubes for heat treatmentAmmonia reformer componentsCatalyst support grids (high temp)

Related Standards

ASTM B167ASTM B163AMS 5870ASME SB-167