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Unlocking the Recycling Value of Nickel Superalloys Scraps
Jan. 14, 2026
Nickel based superalloys are the 'performance kings' in the aerospace field, maintaining high strength and oxidation resistance in extreme environments, with a maximum operating temperature of up to 1320°C. This article will unlock the secrets of nickel alloys and their recycling value.
What are nickel-based superalloys?
Nickel-based superalloys are high-temperature alloys with nickel as the base metal (content >50%). They possess high strength and excellent oxidation and gas corrosion resistance in the temperature range of 650-1000°C, with an operating temperature range of -253 to 1320°C. They are mainly divided into solid-solution strengthened and age-hardened types. The melting processes include single melting (VIM), double melting (VIM+ESR/VAR), and triple melting (VIM+ESR+VAR) process systems, with double or triple melting processes being the most widely used.
The metallic element composition of nickel-based superalloys is very sophisticated, mainly divided into two categories: base elements and strengthening elements. They work together to give the material excellent high-temperature performance:
1. Core Base Elements
Nickel (Ni): Content exceeds 50%, providing a stable austenitic structure and acting as the "skeleton" of the alloy.
Chromium (Cr): Approximately 17%-21%, forming a dense chromium oxide protective film, which is key to oxidation and corrosion resistance.
2. Key Strengthening Elements
Niobium (Nb): 4.75%-5.5%, achieving ultra-high strength through the formation of the V+ phase.
Molybdenum (Mo): 2.8%-3.3%, improving matrix strength and creep resistance.
Platinum (Pt): 0.1%-15%.
Titanium (Ti) and Aluminum (Al): Together form the V+ phase, providing synergistic strengthening.
Which industries are nickel-based superalloy turbine blades used?
Nickel-based superalloys are the most widely used and highest-strength high-temperature alloys, mainly used in the manufacture of aircraft engine blades and high-temperature components in rocket engines, nuclear reactors, and energy conversion equipment. Their core strengthening mechanism stems from the precipitation strengthening of the V+ phase (Ni3Al/Ni3Ti), and the addition of Cr further enhances oxidation resistance.
Aircraft Engines: Key components such as turbine blades, combustion chambers, and burners require high-temperature resistance, oxidation resistance, and corrosion resistance.
Rocket Engines: High-temperature structural components of missile aircraft.
Gas Turbines: High-temperature components such as turbine discs, guide vanes, and blades.
Why is there scrap from nickel-based superalloy turbine blades?
The generation of nickel-based superalloy turbine blade scrap mainly stems from its harsh service environment and complex manufacturing process. The main factors include:
Sulfides produced by engine combustion react with NaCl in the marine atmosphere, forming a Na₂SO₄ molten salt film, which destroys the oxide film on the blade surface, leading to hot corrosion.
The creep performance of the alloy decreases at high temperatures, leading to cracks or deformation after long-term service, ultimately resulting in scrapping.
Turbine blades must withstand temperatures above 1300℃, high-speed airflow impact, and complex stresses, leading to material fatigue and failure.
Huatuo Precious Metal Company - Recycling nickel superalloy scrap worldwide
Recycling nickel superalloy scrap is a win-win choice for resource recycling and environmental protection. Huatuo Precious Metal Company actively procures nickel-based superalloy scrap globally. If you have nickel superalloy scrap but are unsure of its recycling value, please contact our experts immediately. We provide free sample testing and service consultations to ensure you get the best value for your scrap.
Call anytime: +86 189* 3824 7050
Email: info@huatuometals.com
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