Related Tradenames:

AL 20 (tm), Carlson Alloy C20 (tm) ,Carpenter 20 CB 3 (tm), Nickelvac 23 (tm)
Nicrofer 3620 Nb (tm)

Chemistry Data :

Principal Design Features :

This alloy is a columbium stabilized material that combines excellent corrosion resistance with elevated mechanical properties and relatively easy fabrication. It particularly excels in resisting corrosion to hot sulfuric acids when compared to conventional stainless steels such as 316.

Applications :

Good availability at both the mill and distributor levels have made this a popular choice for a wide variety of applications. Included among these are: equipment for the manufacture of synthetic rubber, plastics, organic and heavy chemicals, pharmaceuticals, solvents and explosives, petroleum products, etc. Also employed in heat exchangers, mixing tanks, metal cleaning and pickling equipment and process piping.

Machinability :

Superior finishes may be obtained using set-up and process speeds and feeds normally employed in austenitic stainless steels such as 316 and 317. Slow speeds and heavy, constant feeds are the rules in working this alloy.

Forming :

To obtain maximum ductility, heat material to 2100 F(1149 C). Understand, however, that this process will adversely affect the stability of the material. Without this process, the material can be satisfactorily formed albeit with a high work hardening rate.

Welding :

Most commonly used welding methods with the exception of oxyacetylene welding have been successfully employed with this alloy. The presence of columbium tends to minimize the precipitation of carbides in the heat affected zone, so the material may, in most cases , be used in the "as welded" condition. Pre-heating is not required.

Forging :

Soak thoroughly at 2100-2250 F(1149-1232 C). Re-heat when temperature drops below 1800 F(982 C). After forging, reheat and soak completely at 1725-1850 F(941-1010 C) and quench rapidly in water or oil.

Hot Working :

This alloy can be successfully hot formed using forces similar to those required by austenitic stainless steels.

Cold Working :

This alloy can be successfully cold formed using all common practices. Its elevated strength may require higher forming pressures.

Annealing :

Soak thoroughly at 1725-1850 F(941-1010 C), water quench.

Hardening :

This material may only be hardened by cold work.