Inconel 718 price is influenced by its high nickel content, complex precipitation-hardening process, and strict aerospace-grade standards. As one of the most widely used nickel-based superalloys, Inconel 718 (UNS N07718) is essential in aerospace engines, gas turbines, nuclear reactors, and high-performance industrial applications. This guide explains pricing structure, material conditions, and key cost drivers in detail.
Inconel 718 Price Overview
Inconel 718 is a premium alloy with higher processing complexity compared to standard stainless steel and many nickel alloys. Its price varies significantly based on heat treatment condition, product form, and certification level.
What Is Inconel 718 Alloy (UNS N07718 Introduction)
Definition
Inconel 718 is a nickel-chromium alloy strengthened by precipitation hardening, mainly using niobium and molybdenum. It is known for maintaining strength at high temperatures and resisting creep deformation.
Main Features
- Excellent high-temperature strength up to 700°C+
- Outstanding fatigue and creep resistance
- Good corrosion and oxidation resistance
Key Properties of Inconel 718
| Property | Performance |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | Very high after aging treatment |
| Heat Resistance | Up to ~700–750°C |
| Fatigue Resistance | Excellent for aerospace use |
Average Inconel 718 Price Range
Price by Unit
| Unit | Price Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USD/kg | $60 – $110 | Depends on form and certification level |
| USD/ton | $60,000 – $110,000 | Bulk industrial pricing |
Price Differences by Product Form
| Product Form | Price Level | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Bar | Medium | Widely used, standard processing |
| Plate | Medium to High | Large size processing cost |
| Pipe | High | Seamless production complexity |
| Forging | Highest | Aerospace-grade precision requirements |
Solution Treated vs Age Hardened 718 Price Comparison
| Condition | Price Level | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Solution Treated | Lower | Soft condition, easier processing |
| Age Hardened | Higher | Final strength achieved, more processing steps |
Nickel and Alloying Elements Impact on Cost
Nickel is the primary cost driver in Inconel 718. Additional alloying elements such as niobium, molybdenum, and titanium further increase material cost and processing complexity.
Size and Specification Effect on Pricing
| Specification | Price Impact |
|---|---|
| Small diameter / thin section | Higher per kg due to precision machining |
| Large size / heavy section | Lower per kg but higher total cost |
Aerospace Grade vs Industrial Grade Price Differences
| Grade Type | Price Level | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Grade | Very High | AMS certification, strict testing |
| Industrial Grade | Lower | Standard ASTM compliance |
Heat Treatment and Processing Cost Impact
Inconel 718 requires solution treatment and aging processes, which significantly increase production cost due to energy consumption and time-intensive processing cycles.
ASTM & AMS Standards Influence
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| AMS 5662 | Solution annealed condition |
| AMS 5663 | Age-hardened condition |
| ASTM B637 | Nickel alloy bars, forgings, and stock |
Global Nickel Market (LME) Impact on 718 Price
Nickel price fluctuations on the London Metal Exchange directly affect Inconel 718 pricing, as nickel is the largest cost component in the alloy.
Regional Price Differences
| Region | Price Level | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Highest | Aerospace certification demand |
| Europe | High | Strict industrial standards |
| China | Competitive | Large-scale production capability |
| India | Medium | Cost-efficient manufacturing |
Typical Price Table for Inconel 718 Products
| Product | Condition | Price Range ($/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Bar | Age Hardened | 70 – 110 |
| Plate | Solution Treated | 65 – 100 |
| Forging | Aerospace Grade | 90 – 130 |
How to Get the Best Inconel 718 Price from Suppliers
- Compare multiple certified suppliers
- Select appropriate heat treatment condition
- Optimize specification and tolerance requirements
- Place bulk orders to reduce unit cost
- Track LME nickel price trends
Frequently Asked Questions About Inconel 718 Price
Why is Inconel 718 more expensive than stainless steel?
Due to high nickel content and complex heat treatment processes.
Does heat treatment affect price?
Yes, age hardening increases cost due to additional processing steps.
What is the main cost driver of Inconel 718?
Nickel content and aerospace-grade certification requirements.
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