FeCrAl (0Cr21Al6Nb)

Key Features:

  • Higher Al content (6%) → Thicker Al₂O₃ protective layer.
  •  Niobium stabilization → Longer lifespan in cyclic heating.
  • Cost-effective compared to premium grades like Kanthal A1, Kanthal AF.
  • Max working temperature: 1350℃
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About FeCrAl (0Cr21Al6Nb)

FeCrAl (0Cr21Al6Nb) is a specialized iron-chromium-aluminum alloy enhanced with niobium (Nb) for improved high-temperature stability. Where is FeCrAl (0Cr21Al6Nb) commonly applied? It is widely used in electric heating elements, industrial furnaces, and aerospace applications due to its exceptional oxidation resistance and creep resistance.

  1. Chemical Composition (Weight %)
Element Content (%) Role in the Alloy
Iron (Fe) Balance (~73%) Base metal
Chromium (Cr) 21% Enhances oxidation & corrosion resistance
Aluminum (Al) 6% Forms protective Al₂O₃ layer at high temps
Niobium (Nb) ~0.5-1% Stabilizes structure, prevents grain growth
Impurities (C, Si, Mn, etc.) <1% Minimized for performance

Why Niobium (Nb) is Added? 

– Prevents grain boundary weakening at high temperatures. 

– Improves creep resistance (reduces deformation under stress). 

– Enhances long-term durability in cyclic heating applications. 

  1. Key Properties:
Property Value Notes
Max Operating Temp (Air) 1350°C (2462°F) Higher than standard FeCrAl alloys
Oxidation Resistance Excellent Forms dense Al₂O₃ scale
Electrical Resistivity ~1.45 μΩ·m Suitable for resistive heating
Mechanical Strength High Retains strength at high temps
Thermal Shock Resistance Moderate Better than SiC but brittle when cold

Advantages Over Standard FeCrAl (e.g., 0Cr25Al5) 

✔ Higher Al content (6%) → Thicker Al₂O₃ protective layer. 

✔ Niobium stabilization → Longer lifespan in cyclic heating. 

✔ Cost-effective compared to premium grades like Kanthal APM. 

  1. Applications

 Industrial Heating 

– Electric furnace heating elements (sintering, annealing). 

– Kiln components (ceramics, glass processing). 

– Heat treatment equipment (e.g., carburizing furnaces). 

 Energy & Aerospace 

– Glow plugs (diesel engines). 

– Aircraft heating systems (de-icing, environmental control). 

 Specialized Uses 

– Nuclear reactor components (due to radiation resistance). 

– Chemical processing (corrosion-resistant heaters). 

  1. Comparison with Similar FeCrAl Alloys:
Alloy Grade Cr % Al % Nb % Max Temp (°C) Key Advantage Price
0Cr23Al5 23% 5% 1250°C Standard industrial grade $8/kg-$20/kg
0Cr25Al5 25% 5% 1300°C Higher Cr for corrosion resistance $8/kg-$20/kg
0Cr21Al6Nb 21% 6% 0.5-1% 1350°C Best oxidation + creep resistance $18/kg-$28/kg
HJ209(Kanthal A-1 Substitute) 22% 5.8% 1400°C Premium industrial grade $20/kg-$30/kg
HJ407(Kanthal APM Substitute) 21% 5% 0.02% Ce 1425°C Rare-earth enhanced $28/kg-$50/kg

When to Choose FeCrAl 0Cr21Al6Nb? 

– For extreme oxidation resistance (6% Al). 

– For cyclic heating applications (Nb prevents grain growth). 

– Where cost is a factor (cheaper than Kanthal APM). 

  1. Manufacturing & Handling:

– Brittle at room temperature → Pre-heat to 300–500°C before bending. 

– Welding: Possible but requires inert gas (Argon) to prevent oxidation. 

– Avoid sulfur-rich environments (can form brittle sulfides). 

Conclusion 

FeCrAl (0Cr21Al6Nb) is a high-performance, cost-effective FeCrAl alloy ideal for: 

– Industrial heating elements (1350°C max). 

– Applications requiring long-term stability (thanks to Nb). 

– Harsh environments (oxidation, cyclic heating). 

Frequently Asked Question 

  1. What are reliable Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy companies serving global heating and processing sectors?
    Ans. Super Metals is a reliable Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy company supplying premium high‑temp alloys worldwide. They provide certified materials, detailed data sheets, personalized support, and efficient delivery to industrial hubs.
  2. How can I find trusted Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy suppliers near global industrial hubs?
    Ans. To find trusted Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy suppliers near major industrial hubs, contact Super Metals. They offer certified high‑temp alloys with fast regional delivery, inventory tracking, and expert technical guidance for engineering teams.
  3. What are the available Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy options for industrial heating and thermal builds?
    Ans. Super Metals provides diverse Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy options tailored for industrial heating and high‑temp applications, including different forms, certified specs, technical guidance, global availability, and expedited international shipping.
  4. Who are the top Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy suppliers with global reach for high‑temperature industries?
    Ans. Super Metals is a leading Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy supplier worldwide, providing high‑temperature resistant alloys, fast international delivery, detailed specifications, and expert support for industrial, furnace, and thermal applications.
  5. Which are the best Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy manufacturers internationally for durable thermal alloys?
    Ans. The best Fecral 0Cr21Al6Nb alloy manufacturers include Super Metals, recognized globally for producing robust high‑temperature alloys with strict testing, certifications, and dependable supply to key industrial markets.