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Views: 0 Author: Rachel Wynn Publish Time: 2025-07-09 Origin: Site
Inconel 718, a nickel-chromium superalloy, is widely used in demanding industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and performance at high temperatures. However, metal stamping using Inconel 718 is complex and costly due to the alloy's properties. In this in-depth blog, we'll explore the key cost drivers of Inconel 718 stamping, helping engineers, procurement specialists, and manufacturers make informed decisions.
Inconel 718 is a precipitation-hardenable nickel-based alloy with significant amounts of iron, niobium, and molybdenum. Its resistance to creep and rupture at temperatures up to 700°C makes it a preferred material in jet engines, gas turbines, and other high-stress environments.
High tensile and yield strength
Excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance
Good weldability and formability (relative to other superalloys)
Maintains mechanical integrity in extreme environments
The cost of stamping Inconel 718 is significantly higher than traditional materials due to several factors:
Inconel 718 is more expensive than carbon steel or stainless steel. Pricing fluctuates with the global market for nickel and other alloying elements. As of 2025, the price ranges from $30 to $45 per pound depending on the supplier, form (sheet, coil, plate), and certification (AMS, ASTM).
Inconel 718's hardness and work-hardening characteristics accelerate die wear. Tooling must be made from premium materials such as carbide or coated high-speed steels, and may require frequent maintenance or replacement.
Key impacts:
Higher upfront tooling investment ($30,000+ for progressive dies)
Reduced die life compared to stamping mild steel
Need for specialized coatings to reduce friction and wear
Stamping Inconel 718 demands higher press forces due to its strength. This may require:
Upgraded press tonnage (300+ tons)
Slower stroke rates to prevent cracking or distortion
Precision feed systems and controls
Stamped Inconel 718 parts often require post-processing steps such as:
Solution annealing and age hardening to restore ductility and improve strength
Surface finishing or coating for improved corrosion performance
Non-destructive testing (NDT) for aerospace or nuclear applications
Each of these steps adds time, labor, and energy costs to production.
Because of Inconel 718's cost, efficient nesting and blanking are critical. However, springback and work hardening increase the risk of dimensional inaccuracies and part rejection.
For a mid-sized stamped aerospace component:
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Raw Material (1.5 lbs) | $50 - $70 |
| Tooling Amortization | $8 - $15 |
| Labor & Machine Time | $20 - $30 |
| Heat Treatment | $10 - $20 |
| Inspection & QA | $5 - $10 |
| Total Cost | $90 - $145 |
Design for Manufacturability (DFM): Simplify part geometries, increase tolerances where feasible, and minimize unnecessary features.
Volume Planning: Higher production volumes allow better tooling amortization and process optimization.
Material Alternatives: In some cases, alternative alloys (e.g., Hastelloy, titanium) may offer performance at a reduced cost.
Partner with Experts: Working with suppliers who specialize in high-performance alloy stamping can reduce error rates and increase yield.
Aerospace (jet engines, exhaust systems), power generation (gas turbines), and oil & gas (downhole tools) are major users.
No. You need presses with sufficient tonnage and rigidity. Precision control and die alignment are also critical.
For critical applications, yes. Cold working alters the alloy's structure. Heat treatment restores ductility and enables age hardening.
Titanium nitride (TiN), chromium nitride (CrN), or diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings are commonly used to improve wear resistance.
For low-volume or prototype work, yes. But for high-volume production, stamping is more cost-effective once tooling is in place.
Stamping Inconel 718 offers performance benefits unmatched by most metals, but it comes at a price. Understanding the specific cost drivers—material, tooling, processing, labor, and design—can help stakeholders make strategic decisions and avoid budget surprises. With proper planning and expert collaboration, the challenges of Inconel 718 stamping can be transformed into opportunities for long-term value.
Contact our engineering and sourcing team today for a personalized quote, technical guidance, or to discuss how we can support your Inconel 718 stamping needs. Let’s turn challenges into long-term value—together.
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