Super Stainless Steel A-286 (UNS S66286)
A-286 is an iron-base superalloy designed for applications requiring high strength and superior corrosion resistance at temperatures up to 1300°F (704°C). While technically a precipitation-hardening austenitic stainless steel, its performance characteristics align it more closely with nickel-based superalloys. It is stabilized with Titanium and strengthened through the addition of Aluminum and Vanadium, providing a remarkable combination of high-temperature oxidation resistance and excellent mechanical properties.
At Aries Alloys, we supply A-286 to the aerospace and power generation sectors. It is the premier choice for components that must maintain structural integrity while subjected to the intense thermal and mechanical stresses of jet engines and industrial turbines.
Key Performance Benefits
- High-Temperature Stability: Maintains exceptional creep-rupture strength and oxidation resistance in continuous service up to 1300°F.
- Cryogenic Reliability: Unlike many high-strength steels, A-286 remains non-magnetic and retains excellent ductility and toughness at sub-zero temperatures.
- Precipitation Hardening: Can be heat-treated to achieve a wide range of mechanical properties, allowing for a precise balance of hardness and ductility.
- Corrosion Excellence: Offers corrosion resistance comparable to Type 316 in many environments, providing protection against aqueous corrosion and hot gases.
- Superior Weldability: Can be welded in the solution-annealed condition, though specialized techniques are used to prevent hot cracking in heavy sections.
Technical Profile & Composition
The Precipitation Advantage:
The strength of A-286 comes from the formation of gamma prime (γ') precipitates during the aging process. This is achieved through the careful balance of Nickel (24-27%), Chromium (13.5-16%), and Titanium (1.9-2.35%). This internal structure "pins" the metal’s grains, preventing deformation even under extreme heat.
Mechanical & Physical Data:
- Density: 7.92 g/cm^3
- Melting Range: 2500°F - 2600°F (1370°C - 1425°C)
- Magnetic Property: Non-magnetic in all conditions.
- Common Specifications: Meets ASTM A453 (Grade 660), AMS 5731, and AMS 5737 requirements.
Primary Industrial Use Cases
Aries Alloys is a strategic supplier of A-286 for mission-critical hardware:
- Aerospace Propulsion: Jet engine components, including turbine wheels, blades, frames, and afterburner parts.
- Industrial Gas Turbines: High-strength fasteners, manifold components, and heat exchangers.
- Oil & Gas Exploration: Downhole equipment and non-magnetic components for sour gas environments.
- Automotive Performance: Specialized exhaust valves and manifold bolts for high-performance racing engines.
- Cryogenic Engineering: Supports and structural components for liquid gas storage and transport systems.
Product Availability at Aries Alloys
- Round & Hex Bars: Precision rods, typically supplied in the solution-treated or aged condition for machining high-strength bolts and shafts.
- Sheets & Plates: Precision-cut flat products for the fabrication of turbine housings and heat shields.
- Seamless Tubing: High-pressure tubing for aerospace fluid systems and exhaust manifolds.
- Forged Rings: Custom-forged components designed for high-heat, high-pressure connectivity.