Yes, Incoloy 925 is machinable, but it is a demanding material that needs the right tooling and set-up. It is increasingly used in oil and gas applications as a lower cost alternative to Inconel 718, and is machined into downhole components such as measurement equipment and drill string parts, as well as valves, seal assemblies and hangers.
How it behaves under machining
The mechanical properties of Incoloy 925 are similar to Inconel 718. Both are primarily nickel and both reach high strength through precipitation-strengthening, with fine hard precipitates distributed throughout, so their machining set-ups are also similar.
Several factors make it challenging:
- It work hardens during machining, raising the strength of the metal at the surface.
- It has relatively low thermal conductivity, so heat can build up at the tool tip. This drives tool wear and can force slower machining speeds.
- The precipitation-strengthening can cause abrasive wear to the tooling.
Getting it right
Correct tool selection and set-up are critical. We recommend rigid tools with positive rake angles and machining patterns that limit work hardening of the material.
We stock Alloy 925 as round bars from 4"-10" diameter (101.6-254mm), with hollow bars also available.