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Multimet Welding Wire: Composition, Properties, and Uses

When it comes to welding in high-temperature and high-stress environments, the choice of welding wire can make all the difference. One such exceptional choice is Multimet welding wire, renowned for its remarkable properties and diverse applications. But what exactly makes Multimet welding wire stand out in the crowded field of welding materials? This article delves into the intricate details of its composition, the unique mechanical and physical properties it boasts, and the various industries where it plays a critical role. Whether you are an aerospace engineer seeking the best materials for jet engine components, an industrial technician looking to understand the best welding practices, or simply curious about advanced welding materials, this comprehensive guide will provide the insights you need. Discover the science behind Multimet welding wire and how it meets the rigorous demands of modern engineering and manufacturing.

Introduction

Overview of Multimet® Welding Wire

Multimet® welding wire is a high-performance alloy developed by Haynes International. It is known for its exceptional strength and durability in extreme conditions. This alloy is a nickel-chromium-based material designed to withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments.

Key Features

High-Temperature Performance

One of the standout characteristics of Multimet® welding wire is its ability to maintain strength at elevated temperatures, sustaining high strength up to 1500°F (815°C) and moderate strength up to 2000°F (1093°C). This feature is critical for applications in industries such as aerospace and gas turbines where components are subjected to intense heat.

Corrosion Resistance

Multimet® welding wire offers excellent resistance to stress corrosion cracking, pitting, and crevice corrosion. This makes it suitable for use in harsh environments, such as chemical processing plants and marine applications, where exposure to corrosive substances is common.

Superior Weldability

The alloy is designed for superior weldability, allowing for efficient and reliable welding. Multimet® welding wire can be used in various welding positions without the need for preheating or post-weld heat treatment. Its excellent arc stability minimizes spatter and reduces porosity, ensuring high-quality welds.

Applications

Aerospace Industry

Multimet® welding wire is widely used in the aerospace industry for welding critical jet engine components. The alloy’s high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance are crucial for maintaining these components’ integrity under extreme conditions.

Gas Turbine Engines

Multimet® welding wire is used in making gas turbine engine parts like combustion chambers and turbine blades. These parts operate at high temperatures and require materials that can maintain their strength and resist thermal creep and cyclic loading.

Chemical Processing and Marine Applications

Its robust corrosion resistance makes Multimet® welding wire ideal for chemical processing plants and oil refineries. It is also used in marine applications where resistance to saltwater and other corrosive elements is needed.

Conclusion

Multimet® welding wire is a versatile and reliable material for high-temperature and corrosive environments, making it a preferred choice across multiple industries.

Chemical Composition

Chemical Composition and Performance of Multimet® N155 Welding Wire

Multimet® N155 welding wire is made from several key elements that give it exceptional performance in high-temperature and corrosive environments. The combination of these elements is crucial for the alloy’s overall effectiveness.

Principal Elements

  • Nickel (Ni): 19.00-21.00%
  • Cobalt (Co): 18.50-21.00%
  • Chromium (Cr): 20.00-22.50%
  • Molybdenum (Mo): 2.50-3.50%
  • Tungsten (W): 2.00-3.00%

Additional Elements

  • Carbon (C): 0.08-0.16%
  • Manganese (Mn): 1.00-2.00%
  • Silicon (Si): 1.00% max
  • Phosphorus (P): 0.040% max
  • Sulfur (S): 0.030% max
  • Niobium (Nb) + Tantalum (Ta): 0.75-1.25%
  • Nitrogen (N): 0.10-0.20%
  • Iron (Fe): Balance

These elements improve strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance, ensuring the alloy performs reliably in demanding conditions.

Importance of Chemical Composition

The chemical makeup of Multimet® N155 is crucial for its performance. Each element is chosen for its specific contribution to the alloy’s properties:

  • Nickel and Cobalt: These provide strength and resistance to corrosion at high temperatures.
  • Chromium: Increases resistance to oxidation and high temperatures.
  • Molybdenum and Tungsten: These boost the alloy’s strength and hardness at high temperatures.
  • Carbon: Even in small amounts, it increases strength and hardness.
  • Manganese and Silicon: These aid in deoxidation during welding and improve stability.
  • Niobium and Tantalum: These enhance strength and stability at high temperatures.
  • Nitrogen: Increases resistance to creep and adds strength.

Conclusion

The balanced chemical composition of Multimet® N155 ensures it meets the demands of high-temperature and corrosive environments. Each element is chosen for its contribution to the alloy’s performance, making it ideal for critical applications in aerospace, gas turbines, and chemical processing.

Mechanical and Physical Properties

High-Temperature Strength

Multimet® welding wire is renowned for its exceptional high-temperature strength. It retains high strength up to 1500°F (815°C) and moderate strength up to 2000°F (1093°C). This makes it ideal for components exposed to extreme heat, like in gas turbine engines and aerospace.

Tensile Strength

Although specific tensile strength values for Multimet® welding wire are not always provided, its base alloy, Multimet N155, shows impressive tensile properties. In bar form, its ultimate tensile strength ranges from 156 to 217 ksi (1078 to 1496 MPa). For sheet and plate forms, it typically ranges from 110 to 140 ksi (758 to 965 MPa), highlighting its robust performance under stress.

Elongation and Ductility

Multimet® welding wire also has excellent ductility, meaning it can deform significantly before breaking. Its elongation is generally around 40% over 2 inches (50 mm) for sheet and plate forms. This high elongation means the material can absorb significant deformation, beneficial for applications needing flexibility and resilience.

Resistance to Thermal Creep

Another critical property is its thermal creep resistance, which ensures it withstands prolonged high temperatures and maintains mechanical integrity under cyclic loading. This makes it ideal for components facing frequent temperature changes and mechanical stresses.

Oxidation Resistance

Its oxidation resistance is noteworthy, withstanding temperatures up to 1800°F (982°C). This prevents material degradation in high-temperature environments like aerospace and industrial applications.

Corrosion Resistance

Multimet® welding wire resists various types of corrosion, including stress corrosion cracking, pitting, and crevice corrosion. This ensures reliable performance in harsh chemical environments, like chemical processing plants and marine applications. It can also withstand harsh chemicals and reducing environments, broadening its application range.

Physical Properties

Melting Point

Its high melting point makes it suitable for extreme temperature applications. This is vital for maintaining integrity and performance in high-heat scenarios.

Density and Thermal Conductivity

Multimet® welding wire has high density and excellent thermal conductivity. These properties help manage heat effectively, crucial for maintaining performance and preventing overheating in critical applications.

Conclusion

Its mechanical and physical properties make Multimet® welding wire versatile and reliable for demanding industrial applications. Its high-temperature strength, tensile properties, ductility, thermal creep resistance, and superior oxidation and corrosion resistance meet the rigorous demands of high-performance environments.

Applications and Uses

Aerospace Industry

Multimet® welding wire is widely used in the aerospace industry because it retains high strength and resists oxidation at elevated temperatures. It is commonly employed in the fabrication and repair of critical jet engine components, such as combustion chambers, exhaust manifolds, afterburners, tail pipes, and high-temperature bolts.

Gas Turbine Engines

In gas turbine engines, Multimet® welding wire is crucial for parts that face high heat and pressure. The wire’s high-temperature strength and resistance to thermal creep make it ideal for turbine blades, shafts and rotors, and heat shields.

Chemical Processing Industry

The chemical processing industry benefits from Multimet® welding wire’s excellent resistance to corrosion. It is used in heat exchangers, reactor vessels, and piping systems, all of which are exposed to harsh chemicals and high temperatures.

Power Generation

In power generation, Multimet® welding wire is used for parts that need to be strong and resistant to heat and pressure. It is particularly useful in steam turbine components and boiler tubes, providing resistance to high-temperature oxidation and corrosion.

Marine Applications

The marine industry uses Multimet® welding wire for its excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion and high strength. It is applied in propulsion systems and structural components for shipbuilding and offshore structures.

Fabrication and Repair

Multimet® welding wire is versatile for general fabrication and repair work, welding various metals like stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and nickel alloys without needing preheating or post-weld heat treatment. Key uses include pressure vessels, steel structures, and components in automotive and home improvement.

Nuclear Industry

The nuclear industry relies on Multimet® welding wire for its high strength and resistance to corrosion. It is used in nuclear reactors and heat exchangers, ensuring components withstand extreme environments and radiation exposure.

High-Temperature Components

Multimet® welding wire is essential for high-temperature components used in various industries. Its ability to maintain strength and resist oxidation at temperatures up to 1800°F (982°C) makes it ideal for afterburner components, turbine blades, and rotors.

Welding Processes

Welding Methods

Multimet N155 welding wire is versatile and can be used in various welding processes due to its excellent weldability and high-temperature properties. Below are the primary welding methods suitable for this alloy:

Primary Welding Methods

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW):
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), also known as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, is ideal for Multimet N155 because it produces high-quality, precise welds with minimal defects.

Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW):
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), or MIG welding, works well with Multimet N155 due to its high deposition rates and versatility in all welding positions. Using Multimet RTW™ filler metal enhances the process by reducing wear on contact tips.

Plasma-Arc Welding and Electron-Beam Welding:
Plasma-Arc Welding and Electron-Beam Welding are both suitable for Multimet N155, offering high precision and control. These methods are excellent for applications requiring deep, narrow welds and minimal heat input.

Pre- and Post-Weld Treatments

Pre-Weld Preparation:
Ensure the Multimet N155 material is solution heat-treated before welding to prevent issues like cracking or distortion.

Post-Weld Heat Treatment:
Post-weld heat treatment may not always be necessary, but it can reduce residual stresses and improve properties such as dimensional stability and fatigue life. Consider a full solution heat treatment or a stress relief at a minimum of 1800°F.

Mechanical and Physical Properties of Weld Metal

Weld metal from Multimet N155 retains high-temperature strength, oxidation resistance, ductility, and excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring durability in harsh environments.

Availability and Forms

Multimet welding wire comes in various forms, including MIG spools, TIG cut lengths, reels, and coils, making it adaptable to different welding needs.

Forming and Machining

Forming Characteristics

Multimet alloy exhibits several key forming characteristics that make it suitable for various industrial applications, and understanding these properties is essential for effectively working with this material.

Ductility

The ductility of Multimet alloy is a significant advantage, allowing it to undergo substantial deformation without fracturing. This property makes it particularly suitable for cold working processes. However, due to its tendency to work harden, managing the alloy during forming operations requires careful consideration.

Cold Working

Cold working is the preferred forming method for Multimet alloy due to its excellent ductility. If the material becomes too hard, it can be heated to 2150°F (1177°C) and rapidly cooled to restore its ductility. This treatment ensures the material returns to its original, workable state.

Machining Characteristics

Specific techniques and tools are required to machine Multimet alloy effectively. These ensure the desired results are achieved.

Tooling

Both carbide and high-speed tool steels are effective for machining Multimet alloy. Carbide tools are preferred for turning and boring operations due to their durability and precision. High-speed steels are particularly effective for drilling and milling operations, offering both toughness and wear resistance.

Machinability

Machining Multimet alloy is similar to working with austenitic stainless steels, which means it can be managed with standard machining techniques. It is crucial to use appropriate cutting speeds, feeds, and lubrication to maintain tool life and achieve high-quality finishes. The alloy’s work hardening tendency must be considered, as it can affect the machining process if not properly managed.

Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is essential for restoring ductility after cold working and enhancing machinability.

Solution Heat Treatment

Solution heat treatment involves heating the alloy to a specific temperature (2150°F) and then rapidly cooling it. This process dissolves precipitates and restores the alloy’s ductility. It makes the material easier to work with during subsequent forming and machining operations.

Stress Relief

Stress relief is another important heat treatment process. This process heats the alloy to a lower temperature than solution heat treatment, holds it for a set time, and then cools it. This helps to reduce residual stresses that may have developed during forming or machining, thereby improving the material’s dimensional stability and reducing the risk of cracking.

Practical Considerations

Here are some practical tips for working with Multimet alloy:

  • Use appropriate lubricants during machining to reduce tool wear and improve surface finish.
  • Optimize cutting speeds and feeds based on the specific operation and tooling.
  • Regularly monitor tool wear to maintain precision and quality.
  • Plan heat treatment processes in conjunction with forming and machining operations.

By understanding and applying these forming and machining characteristics, professionals can effectively utilize Multimet alloy in various industrial applications, ensuring high-quality results and optimal material performance.

Specifications and Standards

Composition

Multimet welding wire, often referred to as Multimet N155 or MULTIMET® RTW™, is an alloy composed primarily of nickel, chromium, and cobalt. The precise chemical composition is essential for its high-performance characteristics. Key elements include:

  • Chromium (Cr): 20.0-22.5%
  • Nickel (Ni): 19.0-21.0%
  • Cobalt (Co): 18.5-21.0%
  • Molybdenum (Mo): 2.5-3.5%
  • Tungsten (W): 2.0-3.0%
  • Manganese (Mn): 1.0-2.0%
  • Niobium (Nb) + Tantalum (Ta): 0.75-1.25%
  • Silicon (Si): 1.0% max
  • Nitrogen (N): 0.10-0.20%
  • Carbon (C): 0.08-0.16%
  • Iron (Fe): Balance
  • Phosphorus (P): 0.04% max
  • Sulfur (S): 0.03% max

Standards

Multimet N155 welding wire meets several key standards, ensuring its suitability for critical aerospace and industrial applications:

  • AMS 5532: Specifies requirements for Multimet N155 nickel alloy in terms of composition and mechanical properties.
  • AMS 5768: Covers the requirements for Multimet N155 in wrought form, such as bars and forgings.
  • AMS 5769: Details the hardness and other properties for Multimet N155 bars and forgings.
  • AMS 5794: Applies to the RTW™ (Ready to Weld) filler metal used for welding Multimet alloy.
  • UNS R30155: The Unified Numbering System designation for Multimet N155, providing a standardized identifier for this alloy.

Properties

Multimet welding wire has several crucial properties that make it ideal for demanding applications:

  • High Temperature Strength: Maintains excellent strength up to 1500°F and moderate strength up to 2000°F.
  • Oxidation Resistance: Offers excellent resistance to oxidation, crucial for high-temperature environments.
  • Ductility: Good ductility, making it adaptable to various fabrication processes.
  • Weldability: Compatible with several welding processes, including gas-tungsten-arc (GTA), plasma-arc, and electron-beam welding. Typically does not require preheating or post-weld heat treatment, although such treatments can enhance specific properties.
  • Mechanical Properties: Tensile strength minimum of 100 to 140 KSI (689 to 965 MPa) and an elongation of 40% in the as-welded condition.

Uses

Multimet welding wire is employed in various critical applications due to its robust properties:

  • Gas Turbine Engines: Commonly used in both air and land-based turbine engines, including components like tail cones, tail pipes, exhaust manifolds, combustion chambers, and afterburners.
  • Aerospace: Its high temperature and oxidation resistance make it perfect for aerospace applications.
  • Nuclear Industry: Utilized in nuclear applications where high strength and corrosion resistance are essential.
  • Chemical Processing: Used in chemical processing plants and oil and gas refineries due to its resistance to corrosion and oxidation.
  • Marine Applications: Its resistance to corrosion and high temperatures makes it suitable for marine environments.

Forms and Availability

Multimet N155 is available in various forms to meet different application needs:

  • Wire: Provided in MIG spools, TIG cut lengths, reels, and coils.
  • Sheet: Available in sheet form.
  • Plate: Offered in plate form.
  • Bar: Round, flat, and rectangular bars are available.
  • Forgings: Includes round, flat, and rectangular bar forgings, as well as rolled and forged rings.
  • Tube and Pipe: Offered in seamless and welded options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What is the chemical composition of Multimet welding wire?

The chemical composition of Multimet welding wire, also known as MULTIMET® welding wire, is as follows: Nickel (Ni): 19.0-21.0%, Cobalt (Co): 18.5-21.0%, Chromium (Cr): 20.0-22.50%, Molybdenum (Mo): 2.5-3.5%, Tungsten (W): 2.0-3.0%, Manganese (Mn): 1.0-2.0%, Niobium (Nb): 0.75-1.25%, Silicon (Si): 1.0% max, Nitrogen (N): 0.10-0.20%, Carbon (C): 0.08-0.16% (or 0.10% max in some specifications), Phosphorus (P): 0.040% max, Sulfur (S): 0.030% max, and Iron (Fe): Balance. This composition provides the alloy with excellent strength, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature properties.

What are the mechanical properties of Multimet N155?

The mechanical properties of Multimet N155 include a tensile strength ranging from 156 to 217 ksi for bars (AMS 5769) and 110 to 140 ksi for sheets/plates (AMS 5532) with a minimum elongation of 40% in 2 inches. The hardness of bars and forgings in the solution heat-treated condition ranges from 156 to 217 HB, while flash welded rings can have a hardness up to 241 HB. The alloy has a density of 0.298 lbs per cubic inch (8.25 g/cm³), a modulus of elasticity of 29.3 MSI, and coefficients of expansion of 8.8 x10^-6 in/in/°F (RT-800°F) and 9.7 x10^-6 in/in/°F (RT-1400°F). The deposited weld metal from Multimet RTW filler wire maintains excellent strength up to 1500°F and moderate strength up to 2000°F, with excellent oxidation and good corrosion resistance.

In what applications is Multimet welding wire typically used?

Multimet welding wire is typically used in applications within the aerospace industry for components such as turbine blades, shafts, rotors, and afterburner components due to its high strength and oxidation resistance. It is also utilized in the power generation sector for steam turbine components and heat exchangers, and in the nuclear industry for its high strength and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures. Additionally, it is employed in chemical processing plants, oil and gas refineries, and marine environments for its excellent resistance to corrosion and oxidation. Multimet welding wire is also used in general industrial applications for welding various alloys, including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and other metals, owing to its superior weldability and the absence of a need for preheating or post-weld heat treatment.

What welding processes are compatible with Multimet welding wire?

Multimet welding wire is compatible with several welding processes due to its unique properties. The primary welding process used is Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), which is favored for producing high-quality welds with exceptional strength and oxidation resistance. Additionally, Multimet welding wire can be utilized in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG) processes, especially in applications requiring high-temperature and oxidation resistance. It also exhibits great weldability with plasma-arc and electron-beam welding methods, which are often used in specialized and high-precision applications. For optimal properties, post-weld heat treatment is often employed.

How does Multimet N155 perform at high temperatures?

Multimet N155 performs exceptionally well at high temperatures. It maintains high strength up to 1350°F (732°C) and moderate strength up to 2000°F (1093°C). The alloy also exhibits excellent oxidation resistance up to 1800°F (982°C) and good corrosion resistance in various media. These properties make Multimet N155 ideal for high-temperature applications, particularly in the aerospace industry and industrial furnace components.

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