Project Description
N09946 Nickel Alloy Steel | UNS N09946 Age-Hardenable Alloy Manufacturer
Introduction to N09946 Nickel-Chromium Alloy
UNS N09946 is a premium age-hardenable nickel-chromium alloy specifically engineered for the most demanding oilfield and petrochemical applications. As a professional SHUNFU METAL manufactured product, this alloy delivers exceptional mechanical properties combined with outstanding corrosion resistance in aggressive environments. The unique precipitation-hardening mechanism of N09946 allows it to achieve remarkable strength levels while maintaining excellent ductility and toughness.
This sophisticated nickel-based superalloy contains approximately 52.0 to 55.0% nickel as the primary element, complemented by 19.5 to 22.5% chromium for superior oxidation and corrosion resistance. The carefully balanced additions of niobium (3.80 to 4.50%), molybdenum (3.00 to 4.00%), and titanium (0.50 to 2.50%) work synergistically to enable the age-hardening response that gives this material its exceptional strength characteristics.
SHUNFU METAL is a leading manufacturer of N09946 alloy products, offering three distinct material designations—140K, 150K, and 160K—each optimized for specific strength requirements. Our advanced manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control systems ensure consistent, reliable products for buyers worldwide. We welcome bulk orders and provide competitive pricing for large-volume purchases.
Applications of N09946 Alloy Steel
N09946 nickel alloy has been specifically developed to meet the stringent requirements of high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) oil and gas exploration and production. The combination of high strength, excellent toughness, and superior corrosion resistance makes this alloy an ideal choice for critical downhole components and surface equipment operating in harsh environments.
Primary Application Areas
Oil & Gas Drilling
N09946 is extensively used for drill string components, completion equipment, and subsea wellhead systems. The alloy’s exceptional fatigue resistance and stress corrosion cracking resistance make it indispensable for deepwater and ultra-deepwater drilling operations.
Petrochemical Processing
This alloy serves critical functions in refinery equipment, reactor vessels, and heat exchangers where resistance to chloride stress corrosion cracking and high-temperature oxidation is paramount for safe and reliable operation.
Downhole Tools
The high-strength variants (150K and 160K) are ideal for safety valves, packers, and other pressure-containing downhole tools that must maintain integrity under extreme temperatures and pressures encountered in HPHT wells.
Marine & Offshore
N09946’s outstanding resistance to seawater corrosion and pitting makes it suitable for risers, flowlines, and other offshore production equipment exposed to marine environments and corrosive well fluids.
As an established SHUNFU METAL product line, our N09946 alloy components are trusted by major oilfield service companies worldwide. Our manufacturing expertise ensures that each product meets or exceeds the demanding specifications required for these critical applications.
N09946 Standards and Equivalent Grades
UNS N09946 is manufactured in strict accordance with international standards to ensure consistent quality and performance. The material is produced following rigorous process sequences that include vacuum induction melting (VIM), electro-slag remelting (ESR), or vacuum arc remelting (VAR) to achieve superior cleanliness and homogeneity.
Manufacturing Process Standards
Process Route A:
- Step 1: Basic Electric Furnace (EF)
- Step 2: AOD, VOD, or Vacuum Degassing
- Step 3: ESR, EFR, or VAR
- Optional Step 4: VAR (for enhanced cleanliness)
Process Route B:
- Step 1: Vacuum Induction Melting (VIM)
- Step 2: ESR, EFR, or VAR
- Optional Step 3: VAR (for critical applications)
Related Standards and Specifications
| Standard Organization | Specification/Grade | Description |
|---|---|---|
| UNS | N09946 | Unified Numbering System designation |
| ASTM/ASME | B637 | Precipitation-hardening nickel alloy bars and forgings |
| API | 6A718 | Wellhead and Christmas tree equipment material |
| ISO | 15156 / NACE MR0175 | Sour service requirements for oil and gas |
| DIN/EN | 2.4668 (similar) | European nickel alloy designation |
SHUNFU METAL maintains full traceability and provides complete mill test certificates (MTC) compliant with EN 10204 3.1/3.2 for all N09946 products.
N09946 Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of UNS N09946 is precisely controlled to ensure optimal precipitation hardening response and corrosion resistance. The carefully balanced alloying elements work together to provide the unique combination of properties that make this alloy suitable for the most demanding applications.
| Element | Content (%) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | 52.0 – 55.0 | Base element, provides matrix stability and corrosion resistance |
| Chromium (Cr) | 19.5 – 22.5 | Oxidation resistance and passivation |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance | Matrix constituent |
| Niobium (Nb) | 3.80 – 4.50 | Primary strengthening element (γ” precipitates) |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 3.00 – 4.00 | Solid solution strengthening, pitting resistance |
| Titanium (Ti) | 0.50 – 2.50 | Age-hardening element (γ’ precipitates) |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.01 – 0.70 | Deoxidizer, age-hardening |
| Copper (Cu) | 1.50 – 3.00 | Corrosion resistance in reducing environments |
| Carbon (C) | 0.005 – 0.030 | Controlled for weldability |
| Manganese (Mn) | 1.00 max | Deoxidizer, sulfur control |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.50 max | Deoxidizer |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.020 max | Controlled impurity |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.010 max | Controlled impurity |
Note: SHUNFU METAL provides complete chemical analysis certificates for all N09946 products. Custom compositions within specification ranges can be accommodated for bulk orders.
N09946 Available Dimensions and Forms
SHUNFU METAL, as a professional manufacturer, offers UNS N09946 in a comprehensive range of product forms and dimensions to meet diverse customer requirements. Our extensive stock of standard sizes ensures rapid delivery, while our manufacturing capabilities allow for custom dimensions to be produced efficiently.
Forged Round Bars
Diameter Range: 80mm – 1200mm
Length: Up to 12 meters
Ideal for large components requiring superior internal quality and mechanical properties.
Rolled Round Bars
Diameter Range: 10mm – 300mm
Length: Up to 12 meters
Cost-effective solution for smaller diameter requirements with excellent surface quality.
Hollow Bars
OD Range: Custom per requirements
Wall Thickness: As specified
Pre-bored bars reduce machining time and material waste for tubular components.
Custom Shapes
Forms: Blocks, rings, discs, forgings
Capability: Near-net-shape forgings
Custom geometries manufactured to drawing specifications for complex applications.
Standard sizes available from stock!
Contact SHUNFU METAL for dimension inquiries and custom orders. Bulk quantities welcomed.
N09946 Heat Treatment Procedures
The heat treatment of UNS N09946 is critical to achieving the desired combination of strength, ductility, and toughness. SHUNFU METAL performs all heat treatment operations in precisely controlled furnaces with comprehensive process documentation to ensure consistent results across all production lots.
Heat Treatment Parameters by Material Designation
| Grade | Solution Annealing Temperature | Time (Hours) | Age Hardening Procedure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 140K | 1800°F – 1950°F (982°C – 1066°C) | 0.5 to 4 | Hold at 1250°F-1350°F (677°C-732°C) for 4-8 hours, furnace cool to 1110°F-1190°F (599°C-643°C), hold for total aging time of 12 hours minimum |
| 150K | 1800°F – 1925°F (982°C – 1052°C) | 0.5 to 4 | Hold at 1250°F-1350°F (677°C-732°C) for 4-8 hours, furnace cool to 1110°F-1190°F (599°C-643°C), hold for total aging time of 12 hours minimum |
| 160K | 1825°F – 1950°F (996°C – 1066°C) | 0.5 to 4 | Hold at 1250°F-1350°F (677°C-732°C) for 4-8 hours, furnace cool to 1110°F-1190°F (599°C-643°C), hold for total aging time of 12 hours minimum |
Heat Treatment Process Description
Solution Annealing
The solution annealing treatment dissolves the strengthening precipitates and produces a supersaturated solid solution. Rapid cooling (water quench or equivalent) is required to retain the dissolved elements in solution prior to aging.
Age Hardening
The two-step aging treatment precipitates fine γ’ (gamma prime) and γ” (gamma double prime) particles throughout the matrix. This controlled precipitation is responsible for the exceptional strength achieved in the aged condition.
N09946 Mechanical Properties
UNS N09946 achieves exceptional mechanical properties through precise heat treatment. The three material designations (140K, 150K, 160K) offer different strength levels to accommodate various application requirements. All mechanical property values represent minimum guaranteed levels.
Tensile Properties
| Grade | QTC Cross-Section in. (mm) | 0.2% Yield Min. ksi (MPa) | 0.2% Yield Max. ksi (MPa) | Tensile Min. ksi (MPa) | Elongation in 4D Min. % | Reduction of Area Min. % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 140K | ≤10 (254) | 140 (965) | 165 (1138) | 165 (1138) | 18 | 25 |
| >10 (254) | 140 (965) | 165 (1138) | 165 (1138) | 18 | 20 | |
| 150K | ≤10 (254) | 150 (1034) | 170 (1172) | 170 (1172) | 18 | 25 |
| >10 (254) | 150 (1034) | 170 (1172) | 170 (1172) | 18 | 25 | |
| 160K | ≤10 (254) | 160 (1103) | 180 (1241) | 180 (1241) | 18 | 25 |
| >10 (254) | 160 (1103) | 180 (1241) | 180 (1241) | 18 | 20 |
Charpy V-Notch Impact Toughness (10mm x 10mm)
| Grade | QTC Cross-Section in. (mm) | Orientation | Average Min. ft-lbs (J) | Single Min. ft-lbs (J) | Min. Lateral Expansion in. (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 140K | <3 (76) | Longitudinal | 45 (61) | 40 (54) | 0.015 (0.38) |
| ≥3 (76) to 10 (254) | Transverse | 35 (47) | 30 (41) | 0.015 (0.38) | |
| >10 (254) | Transverse | 30 (41) | 27 (37) | 0.015 (0.38) | |
| 150K | <3 (76) | Longitudinal | 45 (61) | 40 (54) | 0.015 (0.38) |
| ≥3 (76) to 10 (254) | Transverse | 35 (47) | 30 (41) | 0.015 (0.38) | |
| >10 (254) | Transverse | 30 (41) | 27 (37) | 0.015 (0.38) | |
| 160K | ≥3 (76) to 10 (254) | Transverse | 25 (34) | 25 (34) | 0.015 (0.38) |
| >10 (254) | Transverse | 27 (37) | 25 (34) | 0.015 (0.38) |
Hardness Requirements
| Material Designation | Minimum HRC (HBW) | Maximum HRC (HBW) |
|---|---|---|
| 140K | 34 | 42 |
| 150K | 35 | 46 |
| 160K | 36 | 46 |
N09946 Machining and Processing Services
SHUNFU METAL provides comprehensive machining and processing services for N09946 nickel alloy products. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is equipped with advanced CNC machinery and specialized tooling designed specifically for machining high-nickel superalloys.
Available Machining Services
Turning & Finishing
- Rough and finish turning to close tolerances
- Precision OD grinding for superior surface finish
- Centerless grinding capabilities
- Polishing to specified Ra values
Boring & Drilling
- BTA deep hole boring for hollow bars
- Gun drilling for long, small diameter holes
- Honing and roller burnishing for ID finish
- Precision ID tolerances to drawing specifications
Threading Operations
- API rotary shouldered connections
- Premium connections per customer specs
- Internal and external threading
- Thread inspection and certification
Additional Services
- Shot peening for fatigue improvement
- Laser cladding (6-axis capability)
- Complete NDT inspection services
- Custom marking and packaging
Machining Note: N09946 is a work-hardening alloy that requires appropriate tooling and cutting parameters. Our experienced machinists use carbide and ceramic cutting tools with optimized speeds and feeds to achieve excellent results. We recommend machining in the solution-annealed condition when possible, followed by age hardening of finished components.
Why Choose SHUNFU METAL for N09946?
Manufacturer Direct
As a direct manufacturer with ISO9001 certification, we control every step of production from raw material sourcing to final inspection. This ensures consistent quality and competitive factory pricing for bulk orders.
Technical Expertise
Our team of 22 metallurgy and materials engineers provides expert technical support. We can assist with material selection, specification review, and custom solution development for your specific application needs.
Stock Availability
With over 8,000 tons of inventory across 250+ grades stored in 20,000 square meters of warehouse space, we offer fast delivery on standard sizes and efficient production scheduling for custom orders.
Global Service
Exporting to over 52 countries, we are a trusted supplier to the world’s top 10 oilfield service companies. Our experienced export team handles all logistics to ensure smooth delivery to your location.
Request a Quote for N09946 Nickel Alloy
Contact SHUNFU METAL today for competitive pricing on N09946 products. We welcome bulk orders and offer customized solutions for your oilfield and industrial applications.
Phone: +86-731-89903933 | Fax: +86-731-89853933
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer: The technical data provided is for reference purposes only. Actual properties may vary based on specific heat treatment and testing conditions. Please contact SHUNFU METAL for detailed specifications and material certifications for your specific requirements.
We are committed to integrate steel resources in china and serve the global steel market. Our company has more than 15 years of experience in steel researching, production, managing and sales. And our team mostly are based on and worked in national famous steel enterprise before. In the aspect of resources and information, we have established cooperative relationship with nearly hundred enterprises, either state-owned or private owned in China.
What’s more, we have built long, deep and close business relationship with dozens of steel company, Sharing and holding equities with several steel enterprises. Because of the close cooperation with steel companies and our pioneering spirit, which can ensure us stay at the top competition, and ensure our customers get what they really want. We provide preffesional one-stop service to the Contractors of follows project:
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