Inconel is a premium-grade superalloy known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature capabilities. It is widely used in aerospace, marine, chemical, and power generation sectors. The price per pound (lb) of Inconel depends on the specific alloy grade, product form, and market demand. In this guide, we break down Inconel prices per lb, comparing different grades, explaining key pricing factors, and helping buyers understand market dynamics.
Average Inconel Price Per lb by Grade
Different Inconel grades have different chemical compositions and properties, which directly influence their cost. Below is a price range for popular Inconel alloys sold by the pound:
Inconel Grade | Average Price Per lb (USD) | Application Highlights |
---|---|---|
Inconel 600 | $15 – $18 | Furnace parts, heat exchangers |
Inconel 625 | $18 – $25 | Marine equipment, chemical plants |
Inconel 718 | $25 – $35 | Jet engines, power turbines |
Inconel X-750 | $22 – $30 | Rocket engines, spring systems |
Scrap Inconel Price Per lb
Scrap Inconel is priced lower than virgin material and is traded based on the base metal content, particularly nickel. Scrap value fluctuates depending on purity, location, and market conditions.
Scrap Grade | Estimated Price Per lb (USD) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Mixed Inconel Scrap | $0.70 – $1.50 | Lower-grade, unsorted pieces |
Inconel 625 Scrap | $2.50 – $3.20 | High nickel content |
Inconel 718 Scrap | $1.80 – $2.50 | Medium-value aerospace alloy |
What Affects Inconel Price Per lb?
Several key factors influence the price of Inconel when sold by the pound:
1. Grade Composition: Higher alloying elements like nickel, molybdenum, and niobium increase cost.
2. Product Form: Bars and billets may cost more than sheet or plate due to production complexity.
3. Supply and Demand: High demand from aerospace or energy sectors can raise prices significantly.
4. Region: Prices vary depending on where the material is produced or purchased, and import duties may apply.
5. Certification: Aerospace-grade or nuclear-certified Inconel is more expensive due to strict quality controls.
Estimated Cost by Application Size
Use the following table to estimate cost based on total weight:
Weight (lb) | Inconel 625 Total Cost (USD) | Inconel 718 Total Cost (USD) |
---|---|---|
10 lb | $180 – $250 | $250 – $350 |
100 lb | $1,800 – $2,500 | $2,500 – $3,500 |
1,000 lb | $18,000 – $25,000 | $25,000 – $35,000 |
Buying Tips for Inconel by the Pound
1. Request Detailed Quotes: Always specify alloy, size, and quantity when requesting prices.
2. Verify Certifications: Make sure material certification matches industry standards if used in critical applications.
3. Compare Scrap vs Virgin: Use scrap for non-critical parts to reduce costs.
4. Buy in Bulk: Prices per pound decrease with larger quantities.
FAQs About Inconel Price Per lb
What is the price range for Inconel per lb?
The typical range is $15 to $35 per pound for virgin material, depending on the alloy grade.
Is scrap Inconel worth selling?
Yes, scrap Inconel can fetch between $0.70 and $3.20 per pound, depending on the alloy and condition.
Which Inconel grade is the most cost-effective?
Inconel 600 is generally more affordable than grades like 625 or 718, making it suitable for applications with less demanding strength or corrosion resistance requirements.