ASTM B167 Alloy 601 (UNS N06601) Nickel Tube
Inconel 601 Seamless & Welded Tubes | ASTM B167 Specification
ASTM B167 Alloy 601 (UNS N06601) nickel tubes, also known as Inconel 601 tubes, are nickel-chromium-iron alloy tubes engineered for high-temperature service and severe oxidation environments. Manufactured in accordance with ASTM B167, Alloy 601 tubes provide excellent resistance to oxidation, carburization, sulfidation, and nitriding, making them ideal for thermal processing and furnace applications.
What Is ASTM B167?
ASTM B167 is the standard specification for seamless and welded nickel-chromium-iron alloy tubes and pipes intended for general corrosion-resistant and high-temperature service. The standard defines requirements for:
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Chemical composition
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Mechanical properties
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Heat treatment
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Dimensions and tolerances
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Testing and inspection
Material Grade: Alloy 601 (UNS N06601)
Alloy 601 is a nickel-based alloy with significant chromium and aluminum additions, providing outstanding resistance to high-temperature oxidation.
Key Properties of Alloy 601 Tubes
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Excellent oxidation resistance up to ~1200 °C
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Superior resistance to carburization and sulfidation
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Good high-temperature strength
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Stable microstructure under thermal cycling
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Good weldability and fabrication characteristics
Product Forms
ASTM B167 UNS N06601 products are supplied as:
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Seamless tubes
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Welded tubes
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Nickel alloy pipes for pressure and non-pressure service
Size Range & Specifications
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Outside Diameter: 6 mm – 219 mm (1/4″ – 8″)
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Wall Thickness: 0.5 mm – 12 mm (or as specified)
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Manufacturing Process: Seamless hot finished / cold drawn / welded
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Delivery Condition: Solution annealed
Chemical Composition – UNS N06601 (Typical, wt %)
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | 58.0 – 63.0 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 21.0 – 25.0 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
| Aluminum (Al) | 1.0 – 1.7 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.10 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 1.0 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.50 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.015 |
Mechanical Properties (Room Temperature – Typical)
| Property | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 600 MPa |
| Yield Strength (0.2%) | ≥ 250 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥ 30% |
Heat Treatment
ASTM B167 Alloy 601 tubes are supplied in solution annealed condition, followed by rapid cooling to ensure maximum oxidation resistance and consistent mechanical properties.
Testing & Inspection
ASTM B167 UNS N06601 tubes are subject to:
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Chemical analysis
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Tensile test
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Flattening / flaring test
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Eddy current or hydrostatic test
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Dimensional inspection
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Certification: EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 (upon request)
Applications of Alloy 601 Nickel Tubes
ASTM B167 Alloy 601 tubes are widely used in:
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Heat treatment and industrial furnaces
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Radiant tubes and furnace muffles
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Petrochemical processing equipment
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Power generation systems
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Chemical processing plants
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Thermal oxidizers and incinerators
Alloy 601 vs Alloy 600
| Item | Alloy 600 | Alloy 601 |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Content | No | Yes |
| Oxidation Resistance | Very Good | Excellent |
| Max Service Temp | Lower | Higher |
| Typical Use | Chemical service | Furnace & high-temp service |
ASTM B167 Alloy 601 (UNS N06601) nickel tubes offer exceptional oxidation resistance, thermal stability, and long service life in high-temperature environments. Fully compliant with ASTM B167, Inconel 601 tubes are a proven solution for furnace, heat treatment, and thermal processing applications.
