The alloy is processed through double melting at ±2300 °C. The processing route consisting of vacuum induction melting (VIM) followed by vacuum arc refining (VAR).
The raw material inputs are thoroughly cleaned and added in composition, virgin stock is used for melting. Parameters are carefully controlled to avoid the formation of melt-related defects like freckles and soft spots. Downstream processing operations mainly consist of the molten alloy being poured into cylindrical or rectangular molds. Various sizes of ingots or billets are usually cut and forged in the temperature range of 1100°C – 1010°C. Sheets are also rolled at these temperatures at various thicknesses and lengths. The billets, ingots, and sheets are then sold to other companies who the shape and manufacture engine parts, bolt eg. through various methods like die casting, extrusion powder Metallurgy eg. (Anon, 2017)
- Figure 3: billet
Inconel 