Here are the main characteristics of nickel alloys:
- Corrosion/oxidation resistant
- High strength
- Heat resistance up to 980°C
- Highly ductile, won’t break easily if bent
- Magnetic, can easily be magnetized and demagnetized
- Weldability with various welding methods (although could develop hot or warm cracking and porosity)
- Low thermal conductivity, higher with nickel-copper alloys
- Low electrical conductivity, less than pure copper or silver
- Low thermal expansion coefficient, great for precision
- Varying colors depending on alloying element
It’s generally quite hard to differentiate nickel alloys from other types of metals. Nickel alloys can seem slightly dull when their surface is rough, but when it’s smooth, they can be shiny and reflective.
