Tag: nickel

What are nickel alloys?

Nickel-based alloys are a group of metallic materials composed primarily of nickel with the addition of various other elements. These alloys exhibit exceptional corrosion resistance, high-temperature strength, and excellent mechanical properties. They are widely used in industries such as aerospace, chemical processing, power generation, and oil and gas. Nickel-based alloys can be tailored to meet specific requirements by adjusting the composition and heat treatment processes.

Why select nickel based alloys?

There are several reasons to select nickel alloys or Ni-hard for various applications: the corrosion resistance, high-temperature strength, oxidation resistance, it’s versatility, high strength and toughness, the compatibility with other materials and finally its electrical and magnetic properties.

Fast food on the rise in China

The appetite for nickel based stainless steel in China is growing by leaps and bounds.

Stainless steel affects Nickel demand

The high and volatile prices of the alloy metals that go into stainless steel are causing massive problems for both producers and consumers.

Nickel training

The Nickel Institute has developed a slide presentation (with audio) that highlights good practices when fabricating austenitic stainless steels.

Submarine protection

Arc Energy Resources has recently completed the weld overlay cladding of hull penetrator inserts destined for the UK’s Royal Navy’s new Astute class submarine.

Fabricating austenitic

An on-line slide presentation (with accompanying audio) has been launched by the Nickel Institute.

Electroless Nickel available in high volumes

Frost Electroplating (Birmingham, UK) has increased its electroless nickel plating capability.

Minerals processing in Australia

Outokumpu Technology has been awarded orders for the Ravensthorpe Nickel Project in Australia.

New nickel alloy

Eutectic UK has developed and patented a new spray-and-fused powder alloy for one of the toughest corrosion and wear applications available.

Anodised titanium

Tecan (Weymouth, UK) has developed what it claims is an environmentally friendly process for the anodising of titanium parts.

Cutting electrode

Speciality Welds has announced the launch of its new Swordfish arc-cutting electrode.


Nickel alloys or Ni-Hard find extensive use in a wide range of applications across various industries due to their desirable properties. Some common applications include:

Aerospace Industry: Nickel alloys are utilized in aircraft engines, gas turbines, and other aerospace components due to their high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and excellent mechanical properties.

Chemical Processing: Nickel alloys are well-suited for chemical plants where they are used in reactors, heat exchangers, piping systems, and valves. Their exceptional resistance to corrosion and high-temperature environments make them ideal for handling corrosive chemicals and acids.

Oil and Gas Industry: Nickel alloys are crucial in this industry for applications such as oil well drilling tools, valves, pumps, and tubing. Their resistance to corrosion, high strength, and ability to withstand harsh environments make them suitable for offshore and onshore operations.

Power Generation: Nickel alloys are used in power plants, particularly in turbines, generators, and heat exchangers. Their high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance make them ideal for efficient energy production.

Medical Industry: Nickel alloys find applications in medical devices such as implants, surgical instruments, and dental equipment. They offer biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength necessary for medical applications.

Automotive Industry: Nickel alloys are employed in exhaust systems, catalytic converters, and engine components due to their high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance.

Marine Industry: Nickel alloys are used in marine applications, including shipbuilding and offshore structures, due to their resistance to seawater corrosion and high strength.

These are just a few examples, and nickel alloys have numerous other applications in fields such as desalination, food processing, nuclear power, and more.