When engineers and material specialists need a combination of high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and outstanding performance at elevated temperatures, A-286 alloy consistently rises to the top. This iron-nickel-chromium-based superalloy is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and cost-effective materials for demanding aerospace, automotive, power generation, and chemical processing applications.
In this in-depth article, we explore the composition, properties, applications, advantages, and technical considerations of A-286 alloy, and why it remains a trusted choice for high-stress, high-temperature environments. As a global supplier of specialty metals, sasaalloy is proud to offer premium-quality A-286 alloy products tailored to client-specific requirements.
What Is A-286 Alloy?
A-286 alloy, also known as Alloy A286, is an age-hardenable, iron-based superalloy that offers excellent mechanical strength and oxidation resistance up to approximately 1300°F (700°C). It is designed for service in high-temperature environments where creep resistance and long-term structural stability are critical.
A-286 is commonly produced in accordance with specifications such as:
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ASTM A453 (bolting applications)
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AMS 5731 / AMS 5732 / AMS 5737 (aerospace)
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UNS S66286
Due to its balanced performance and affordability compared to nickel-based superalloys, A-286 is widely used across many industries that require both high strength and good corrosion resistance.
Chemical Composition of A-286 Alloy
The excellent performance of A-286 stems from its carefully engineered chemical makeup. Its primary components include:
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Iron (Fe) – Base element
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Nickel (Ni) – Enhances strength and corrosion resistance (~24–27%)
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Chromium (Cr) – Improves oxidation and scaling resistance (~13.5–16%)
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Titanium (Ti) – Promotes age hardening and creep resistance (~1.9–2.3%)
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Molybdenum (Mo) – Adds to strength and corrosion resistance (~1%)
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Vanadium (V) – Enhances creep and rupture strength
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Aluminum (Al) – Assists in precipitation hardening
These elements work together to provide a high-strength matrix that retains performance in extreme conditions—making sasaalloy A-286 alloy ideal for thermal, structural, and mechanical applications.
Key Mechanical and Physical Properties
● High Tensile and Yield Strength
A-286 retains its mechanical strength at both room temperature and elevated service temperatures, making it ideal for bolts, springs, and fasteners that must maintain tension under heat.
● Excellent Oxidation Resistance
With high chromium and nickel content, A-286 forms a protective oxide layer in hot environments, resisting oxidation and surface degradation.
● Good Creep and Stress Rupture Resistance
A-286 maintains dimensional and structural integrity under sustained mechanical loads at elevated temperatures—an essential trait for aerospace and turbine applications.
● Good Fabricability
The alloy is readily formed, welded, and machined, especially in solution-annealed condition.
● Age Hardenable
A-286 can be strengthened further via precipitation heat treatment, enabling improved performance in aerospace-grade components.
Applications of A-286 Alloy
Due to its unique combination of strength, stability, and corrosion resistance, A-286 is used in various critical industries:
1. Aerospace Industry
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Turbine engine components
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Afterburners
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Jet engine fasteners and casings
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Exhaust systems
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High-temperature springs
2. Power Generation
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Turbine blades and vanes
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Combustor parts
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Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems
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Nuclear reactor components
3. Automotive Industry
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Turbocharger components
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Exhaust valves
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Engine and transmission fasteners exposed to high heat
4. Oil and Gas / Chemical Processing
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Heat exchanger components
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High-pressure vessels
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Fasteners in corrosive or hydrogen-containing environments
By offering high performance at a moderate cost, sasaalloy A-286 alloy enables critical infrastructure and components to operate reliably in extreme service conditions.
Fabrication and Heat Treatment
A-286 is compatible with a wide range of fabrication techniques, including:
● Forging and Hot Working
Forging temperatures typically range between 1800°F and 2150°F. The alloy responds well to forging into bars, rings, or flanges.
● Machining
Machinability is acceptable in the annealed state and becomes more challenging after age hardening. High-speed tooling and rigid setups are recommended.
● Welding
A-286 can be welded using standard methods such as GTAW (TIG), SMAW, or GMAW, though post-weld heat treatment is advised to restore full mechanical properties.
● Heat Treatment
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Solution Annealing: Usually at 1800°F followed by rapid cooling.
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Aging Treatment: Typically around 1325°F for 16 hours for precipitation hardening.
Heat treatment is critical in unlocking the full strength potential of A-286 and should follow specification guidelines closely.
Advantages of A-286 Compared to Other Superalloys
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More economical than high-nickel alloys like Inconel 718 or Hastelloy C-276
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High-temperature strength approaching that of more expensive materials
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Excellent dimensional stability for tight-tolerance parts
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Well-documented performance history in aerospace and power industries
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Wide availability in bars, plates, wires, and forgings
At sasaalloy, we supply A-286 in a variety of product forms with mill certification and optional third-party inspection, meeting strict standards required by aerospace and energy clients.
Limitations and Considerations
While A-286 is highly versatile, it’s important to be aware of a few limitations:
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Not suitable for strong reducing environments like molten salts or certain acids
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Welding requires precise controls to avoid loss of corrosion resistance
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Not ideal for cryogenic applications where nickel-based superalloys like Inconel 718 excel
Selecting the right material for the job requires balancing temperature range, stress level, corrosion risk, and fabrication methods—something our engineers at sasaalloy are always ready to assist with.
Summary: Why Choose A-286 Alloy?
A-286 alloy is a proven, cost-effective solution for high-temperature, high-stress, and corrosive applications. Its excellent mechanical properties, resistance to oxidation, and availability in multiple product forms make it an ideal material for aerospace, automotive, energy, and industrial uses.
With its ability to perform in environments up to 1300°F (700°C), A-286 offers a level of confidence and performance that is hard to match—especially at its price point. If your project requires strength, stability, and corrosion resistance, A-286 is one of the most practical superalloy solutions available.
At sasaalloy, we take pride in supplying premium A-286 products with full traceability, consistent quality, and flexible customization options. Whether you need round bars, forged rings, or custom-cut plates, sasaalloy is your reliable partner in performance alloy materials.
Post time: Jul-18-2025