What are the Advantages and Uses of Hastelloy C276 Sheets

In industries where materials are exposed to harsh chemicals, high temperatures, and corrosive environments, selecting the right alloy can be the difference between long-term success and premature failure. Among the most reliable materials for extreme conditions is Hastelloy C276, especially in sheet form. Designed to resist a wide variety of aggressive media, Hastelloy C276 sheets are widely used in chemical processing, pollution control, pulp and paper, and marine environments.

This in-depth article from sasaalloy explores the advantages and applications of Hastelloy C276 sheets, highlighting why they remain a top choice for engineers and fabricators worldwide.

What is Hastelloy C276?

Hastelloy C276 is a nickel-molybdenum-chromium alloy with added iron and tungsten. It belongs to the Hastelloy family of corrosion-resistant alloys, developed and trademarked by Haynes International. This alloy is designated as UNS N10276 and is covered by various standards including:

• ASTM B575 (for plate, sheet, and strip)

• ASME SB-575

• EN 2.4819

Its unique chemical makeup makes it one of the most versatile corrosion-resistant materials available on the market.

Chemical Composition of Hastelloy C276

The corrosion resistance and mechanical integrity of C276 come from its specific alloying elements:

• Nickel (Ni): Balance (~57%)

• Molybdenum (Mo): ~15–17%

• Chromium (Cr): ~14.5–16.5%

• Iron (Fe): ~4–7%

• Tungsten (W): ~3–4.5%

• Cobalt (Co): ≤ 2.5%

• Carbon (C): ≤ 0.01%

• Silicon (Si): ≤ 0.08%

• Manganese (Mn): ≤ 1.0%

This combination provides exceptional resistance to localized corrosion, including pitting, crevice attack, and stress corrosion cracking.

Advantages of Hastelloy C276 Sheets

1. Outstanding Corrosion Resistance

Hastelloy C276 excels in resisting both oxidizing and reducing agents, making it ideal for use in a broad range of chemical environments. It resists:

• Hydrochloric acid

• Sulfuric acid

• Acetic acid

• Ferric and cupric chlorides

• Seawater and brine solutions

• Chlorine dioxide and wet chlorine gas

This resistance is particularly important in applications where other alloys such as 304 or 316 stainless steel would quickly degrade.

2. Excellent Weldability and Fabricability

One of the distinguishing features of C276 sheets is their excellent weldability. They can be welded using standard methods including TIG, MIG, and resistance welding without the risk of forming grain-boundary precipitates that can reduce corrosion resistance.

The sheets can be easily cut, formed, and rolled, making them adaptable for a wide variety of manufacturing processes.

3. Resistance to Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC)

C276 offers strong resistance to SCC caused by chloride and other halide ions. This is crucial in chemical reactors, heat exchangers, and piping systems operating under pressure and temperature fluctuations.

4. High-Temperature Performance

While not designed for extreme high-temperature applications like some nickel-based superalloys, Hastelloy C276 retains excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance up to around 1040°C (1900°F) in oxidizing environments.

5. Purity and Cleanliness in Critical Environments

The ultra-low carbon content of C276 prevents carbide precipitation during welding and heat treatment. This allows it to be used in applications requiring high metal purity and minimal contamination, such as pharmaceutical and semiconductor production.

Industrial Applications of Hastelloy C276 Sheets

Because of their robust characteristics, Hastelloy C276 sheets are used in numerous critical industries.

Chemical Processing

C276 sheets are widely used for:

• Reactor vessels

• Heat exchangers

• Distillation columns

• Storage tanks

• Evaporators and scrubbers

These applications require materials that can handle both reducing and oxidizing environments, making C276 a perfect choice.

Pollution Control Equipment

In flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems and other emission control equipment, C276 sheets are used to line ducts, dampers, and stacks, thanks to their resistance to acidic condensates and high chloride content.

Pulp and Paper Industry

Chlorine dioxide bleaching systems and other corrosive processes in pulp mills benefit from C276’s resilience, especially in applications involving high temperatures and aggressive chemicals.

Marine and Offshore Applications

The alloy’s resistance to seawater, brine, and biofouling makes C276 sheets ideal for:

• Heat exchanger plates

• Seawater piping systems

• Desalination plant components

• Offshore platform structures

Food and Pharmaceutical Industries

Hastelloy C276 sheets are used where hygiene and corrosion resistance are critical. These include processing vessels, dryers, and hygienic enclosures, where resistance to cleaning agents and process chemicals is essential.

Hastelloy C276 vs Other Alloys

vs Stainless Steel 316L

While 316L is effective in mildly corrosive environments, C276 dramatically outperforms it in acidic, chloride-rich, and mixed chemical environments.

vs Inconel 625

Inconel 625 is strong and oxidation-resistant at high temperatures but offers less protection in strongly reducing conditions compared to C276.

vs Hastelloy C22

C22 offers slightly better performance in some oxidizing environments, but C276 is preferred in applications involving mixed acids and aggressive halide environments.

Product Range Offered by sasaalloy

At sasaalloy, we supply Hastelloy C276 sheets in various specifications to meet global industrial standards:

• Thickness: 0.5 mm to 50 mm

• Width: Up to 1500 mm

• Length: Custom cut to size or standard 2000 mm / 2500 mm / 3000 mm

• Finish: 2B, No.1, polished, or custom surface finish

• Standards: ASTM B575 / ASME SB575 / EN 2.4819

Each batch is delivered with:

• EN10204 3.1 certification

• Chemical and mechanical test reports

• Ultrasonic or PMI testing (optional)

With a robust supply chain and in-house processing capabilities, sasaalloy ensures fast delivery and strict quality control for every order.

Why Choose sasaalloy?

• Extensive inventory of Hastelloy sheets, including C276, C22, and other high-performance alloys

• Cutting and fabrication services tailored to your specifications

• Global shipping and support for turnkey projects

• Experienced technical support to guide material selection and usage

With decades of experience in supplying corrosion-resistant alloys, sasaalloy is your trusted partner in high-performance metal solutions.

Conclusion

Hastelloy C276 sheets offer unmatched corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and versatility for some of the most demanding environments on Earth. Whether you operate in chemical processing, pollution control, or marine engineering, choosing the right material is essential for safety, longevity, and performance.

At sasaalloy, we provide high-quality Hastelloy C276 sheets backed by expert support, rigorous testing, and global supply capabilities. From prototype to production, we help you meet your design and operational goals with confidence.