In the world of high-performance alloys, A286 stainless steel stands out as a versatile and robust material, renowned for its exceptional properties across a wide range of applications. This guide delves into the specifics of A286 steel, providing engineer guide, designers, and procurement professionals with a detailed understanding of its characteristics, chemical composition, physical and mechanical properties, advantages, and applications. Welcome contact us and inquiry.
A286 has many different shapes of products, such as plate, bar, wire, strip, coil, coil and so on. If you want more shapes and specifications sizes welcome to contact our engineers for customized products and services.
Overview of A286 Stainless Steel
A286 stainless steel (UNS S66286) is a precipitation-hardening, iron-nickel-chromium superalloy renowned for its high strength, corrosion resistance, and excellent performance at elevated temperatures. Developed for aerospace and industrial applications, A286 outperforms conventional stainless steels (e.g., 304, 316) in stress rupture, creep resistance, and fatigue strength.
Chemical Composition
A286 steel is an iron-nickel-chromium alloy strengthened by additions of titanium, aluminum, and molybdenum. Its precise chemical composition (weight percent) is as follows:
| Element | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
| Nickel (Ni) | 24.0 – 27.0 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 13.5 – 16.0 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.0 – 1.5 |
| Titanium (Ti) | 1.90 – 2.35 |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.35 max |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.10 – 0.50 |
| Boron (B) | 0.001 – 0.010 |
| Carbon (C) | 0.08 max |
| Manganese (Mn) | 2.0 max |
| Silicon (Si) | 1.0 max |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.030 max |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.020 max |
This composition ensures A286 steel’s outstanding strength, corrosion resistance, and stability at elevated temperatures.
Physical Properties
| Property | Value | Comparison to 304 SS |
|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 7.93 | Similar (7.93 vs. 8.0) |
| Melting Range (°C) | 1360–1425 | Higher (vs. 1400–1450) |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | 11.4 | Lower (vs. 16.2) |
| Electrical Resistivity (μΩ·m) | 0.89 | Higher (vs. 0.72) |
| CTE (10⁻⁶/°C, 20–100°C) | 14.4 | Similar (vs. 17.2) |
Note: Low thermal conductivity makes A286 ideal for high-temperature insulation.
Mechanical Properties
| Temperature (°C) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Creep Rupture (100h, MPa) |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 1,000 | – |
| 540 | 750 | 550 |
| 650 | 600 | 300 |
| 700 | 450 | 150 |
Key Advantage:
Retains 60% of room-temperature strength at 650°C (vs. 30% for 304).
Advantages of A286 Stainless Steel
High-Temperature Strength: A286 steel maintains its strength and toughness at temperatures up to 700°C (1292°F), making it ideal for high-temperature applications.
Corrosion Resistance: Its chromium and nickel content provides excellent resistance to oxidation, corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking in various environments.
Weldability: A286 steel is readily weldable using conventional fusion welding techniques, with preheat and post-weld heat treatment often recommended to preserve mechanical properties.
Formability: Despite its high strength, A286 steel retains good formability, allowing for the fabrication of complex shapes and components.
Fatigue Resistance: The alloy exhibits excellent fatigue resistance, making it suitable for cyclic loading applications.
Industrial Applications
A286 stainless steel’s unique combination of properties makes it indispensable in numerous industries and applications, including:
- Aerospace: Engine components, fasteners, springs, and exhaust systems benefit from its high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance.
- Automotive: Turbocharger components, exhaust manifolds, and high-temperature fasteners.
- Oil and Gas: Downhole tools, valves, and fittings exposed to corrosive environments and high temperatures.
- Power Generation: Turbine blades, buckets, and other components in gas turbines and steam turbines.
- Chemical Processing: Valves, pumps, and other equipment requiring resistance to corrosive chemicals.
| Industry | Applications | Why A286? |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace | Turbine blades, fasteners | High strength + oxidation resistance |
| Oil & Gas | Downhole tools, valves | Corrosion + stress cracking resistance |
| Power Generation | Gas turbine components | Creep resistance at 700°C |
| Automotive | Turbocharger parts | Fatigue resistance |
Engineer Guide of Using Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a cornerstone material in modern engineering, renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetic appeal. This guide aims to equip engineers with the knowledge needed to select, design with, and maintain stainless steel components effectively.
Engineer Guide Design Considerations
- Stress Concentrations: Avoid sharp corners and notches that can initiate stress corrosion cracking. Use generous radii and smooth transitions.
- Welding: Select appropriate welding techniques and filler metals to maintain corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Preheat and post-weld heat treatment may be necessary for certain grades.
- Surface Finish: Choose the right surface finish (e.g., polished, brushed, or mill finish) based on aesthetic requirements and corrosion resistance needs.
- Galvanic Corrosion: Be aware of potential galvanic corrosion when stainless steel is in contact with other metals. Use insulators or compatible alloys.
In Conclusion
A286 stainless steel is a high-performance alloy that offers engineers and designers a reliable solution for demanding applications requiring high strength, corrosion resistance, and stability at elevated temperatures. Its versatile properties make it suitable for a wide range of industries, from aerospace to power generation. By understanding A286 steel’s chemical composition, physical and mechanical properties, advantages, and applications, you can make informed decisions when selecting materials for your next project. Whether you’re designing critical aerospace components or high-performance automotive parts, A286 steel stands as a testament to engineering excellence and innovation.