2080 – 03 – Knowing the Properties of Exotic Metals & Superalloys

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Superalloys and exotic metals have different properties than more widely used ferrous metals. Steel might have lower costs and wide variety of uses, but it can’t be used for all applications. Sometimes, manufacturers need to trade in the strength of steel for a lighter exotic metal or superalloy with extreme heat resistance.

The fine-tuned characteristics superalloys and exotic metals make them more expensive and harder to process than more common metals. A wide variety of superalloys have qualities that enable them to handle high temperatures. Their compositions mean they have advanced strength, corrosion resistance, and creep strength even at high temperatures. The same features that make superalloys and exotic metals ideal for extreme environments also make them difficult to machine. Superalloys need far more cutting force to machine in comparison with standard steels.