Know The Difference Between Nickel 200 & 201 Grades

Nickel alloys are widely recognized for their superior corrosion resistance, high strength, and ability to perform under extreme conditions. Among the commercially pure nickel grades, Nickel 200 and Nickel 201 are the most commonly used. While they are similar in many ways, subtle differences in chemical composition and properties make them suitable for different applications. Understanding these differences is essential for engineers, buyers, and decision-makers when selecting the right grade for specific projects.

Introduction to Nickel 200 and 201

Both Nickel 200 and 201 are wrought, commercially pure nickel grades. They are known for their excellent resistance to various corrosive environments and their outstanding mechanical properties. These grades typically contain around 99.6% nickel, making them highly ductile and resistant to many reducing chemicals.

  • Nickel 200: The standard commercially pure wrought nickel grade.

  • Nickel 201: A low-carbon version of Nickel 200, developed to prevent embrittlement at high temperatures.

Chemical Composition

The main difference between Nickel 200 and Nickel 201 lies in their carbon content:

  • Nickel 200: Contains up to 0.15% carbon.

  • Nickel 201: Limited to a maximum of 0.02% carbon.

This seemingly small variation has a significant impact on high-temperature performance, as excess carbon can cause graphitization, leading to material failure.

Mechanical Properties

Both grades exhibit similar mechanical properties at room temperature, including:

  • High tensile strength.

  • Excellent ductility.

  • Good toughness.

However, when exposed to elevated temperatures above 315°C (600°F):

  • Nickel 200 is susceptible to graphitization, reducing ductility and impact strength.

  • Nickel 201, with lower carbon, resists graphitization and maintains stability.

Corrosion Resistance

Nickel 200 and 201 both perform exceptionally well in:

  • Alkaline solutions.

  • Neutral and reducing media.

  • Natural waters and seawater.

  • Anhydrous hydrogen chloride and hydrofluoric acid.

However, their resistance may vary depending on temperature:

  • Nickel 200 is suitable for lower temperature environments.

  • Nickel 201 is recommended for higher temperature service.

Applications of Nickel 200

  • Chemical Industry: Handling caustic soda and alkalis.

  • Electrical Components: Due to its excellent conductivity.

  • Food Processing Equipment: Safe and non-toxic.

  • Marine Applications: Resistance to seawater.

  • General Fabrication: Pipes, tubes, and sheets for industrial use.

Applications of Nickel 201

  • High-Temperature Processing: Particularly in the chemical industry.

  • Electronics: Where purity and performance at elevated temperatures are crucial.

  • Pressure Vessels: Designed for operations above 600°F.

  • Aerospace Components: Where resistance to high-temperature corrosion is essential.

  • Specialized Equipment: For environments prone to graphitization.

Standards and Specifications

Nickel 200 and 201 are produced under strict international standards:

  • ASTM B160 / B162 – Rods, bars, and plates.

  • ASTM B163 / B725 – Seamless and welded pipes and tubes.

  • ASME SB160 / SB163 – Pressure vessel and boiler code compliance.

  • UNS N02200 / N02201 – Nickel 200 and 201 grade identifiers.

Key Differences Between Nickel 200 and 201

Feature Nickel 200 Nickel 201
Carbon Content Up to 0.15% Max 0.02%
Temperature Limit Below 315°C (600°F) Suitable above 315°C (600°F)
Graphitization Prone at high temperatures Resistant to graphitization
Applications General-purpose, lower temperature High-temperature, specialized

Selecting the Right Grade

The choice between Nickel 200 and 201 depends largely on the service environment:

  • For room to moderate temperatures, Nickel 200 is reliable and cost-effective.

  • For high-temperature environments, Nickel 201 is essential to avoid embrittlement.

This is why industries often consult with expert suppliers like sasaalloy, who provide guidance and certified materials for critical projects.

Advantages of Nickel 200 and 201

  • Excellent corrosion resistance in caustic environments.

  • High thermal and electrical conductivity.

  • Good mechanical properties at ambient and elevated temperatures.

  • Weldability and formability for ease of fabrication.

Challenges to Consider

  • Cost: More expensive than carbon or stainless steels.

  • Limited Strength: Not as strong as some nickel alloys like Inconel or Monel.

  • Availability: Requires sourcing from trusted suppliers to ensure quality and compliance.

Future Outlook for Nickel 200 & 201

With industries increasingly operating in corrosive and high-temperature environments, demand for pure nickel grades will continue to grow. Ongoing research aims to improve processing techniques and develop hybrid alloys with enhanced properties.

Conclusion

Nickel 200 and Nickel 201 may look nearly identical at first glance, but their carbon content and temperature performance set them apart. Nickel 200 is well-suited for general-purpose applications at moderate temperatures, while Nickel 201 excels in high-temperature environments where resistance to graphitization is crucial.

Both grades are indispensable for chemical processing, electronics, aerospace, and marine industries. By selecting the correct grade and working with trusted manufacturers such as sasaalloy, industries can ensure long-term safety, efficiency, and performance in critical operations.

Post time: Aug-18-2025