inconel

thumb|Inconel 718 round bar

Inconel ( ) is a superalloy composed mainly of nickel, chromium, and iron that is often used in extreme environments where components are subjected to high temperature, pressure, or mechanical loads. Inconel alloys are oxidation- and corrosion-resistant. When heated, Inconel forms a thick, stable passivating oxide layer protecting the surface from further attack. Inconel retains strength over a wide temperature range, making it attractive for high-temperature applications in which aluminum and steel would succumb to creep as a result of thermally-induced crystal vacancies. Inconel's high-temperature strength is developed by solid solution strengthening or precipitation hardening, depending on the alloy.