Refractaloy 26 (R26, R-26, AISI 690, Z6NKCDT38, AMS 5760) Forged Parts

China Jiangyin Leading Manufacturer of High-Temperature Refractaloy 26 Forgings

 Jiangsu Liangyi, founded in 1997 and based in Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province – a leading hub for forging in China – is a professional ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer specializing in open die forgings and seamless rolled forged rings made of Refractaloy 26 (R26, R-26, AISI 690, Z6NKCDT38, AMS 5760) . With more than 25 years of focused expertise in high-temperature alloy production, we supply high-quality Refractaloy 26 forged parts for important high-temperature applications to over 50 countries around the world.

High-quality Refractaloy 26 (AMS 5760) forged bars and rods manufactured by Jiangsu Liangyi in Jiangyin, China

Our Unique Advantage: As a vertically integrated manufacturer located in Jiangyin, we provide a full range of service, from VIM+ESR melting, forging and advanced heat treatment to CNC machining. This full-process control guarantees consistent quality, shorter lead times and cost-competitive pricing for all your Refractaloy 26 forged parts.

Our 80,000㎡ advanced manufacturing plant in Jiangyin is equipped with advanced forging equipment, including 2000–6300 ton hydraulic presses, 1–5 ton electro-hydraulic hammers, and 5‑meter seamless ring rolling mills. We also operate an in-house testing laboratory furnished with facilities for chemical analysis, mechanical property testing, metallographic examination, and non-destructive testing, making sure every Refractaloy 26 forging meets the strictest international standards.

Refractaloy 26 Material Overview: Why Choose This High-Temperature Alloy?

 Refractaloy 26 (AMS 5760) is a precipitation‑hardening nickel‑chromium‑cobalt‑iron alloy specifically engineered for applications needing excellent strength and creep resistance at temperatures up to 760°C (1400°F). Compared to widely used high‑temperature alloys such as Inconel 718 or Waspaloy, Refractaloy 26 has better performance in the following areas:

  • Creep and endurance strength at elevated temperatures
  • Ductility and toughness even after long-term high-temperature exposure
  • Resistance to thermal fatigue and thermal cycling
  • Microstructural stability during prolonged service
  • Corrosion and oxidation resistance in harsh industrial environments

These properties make Refractaloy 26 the best choice material for important parts in gas turbines, steam turbines, and other high-temperature power generation equipment where failure could result in costly downtime and safety hazards.

Comprehensive Refractaloy 26 Forged Product Shapes & Capabilities

We produce a full range of Refractaloy 26 (R26) forged products in all kinds of shapes and sizes to meet your specific project requirements. Following are our manufacturing capabilities:

Forged Bars & Rods

  • Round bars, square bars, flat bars, rectangular bars and hollow bars
  • Maximum diameter: up to 2 meters
  • Maximum length: up to 15 meters
  • Single-piece weight: up to 30 tons
  • Available in rough forged, turned, ground or polished finishes

Seamless Rolled Rings

  • Custom seamless rolled rings and open die forged rings
  • Maximum diameter: up to 6 meters
  • Maximum height: up to 1.5 meters
  • Single-piece weight: up to 30 tons
  • Ideal for turbine casings, valve seats and rotating parts

Hollow Components

  • Hubs, housings, shells, sleeves, bushes, cases and hollow bars
  • Outer diameter capacity: up to 3000 mm
  • Wall thickness: from 20 mm to 500 mm
  • Seamless construction for maximum strength and integrity

Flat Products

  • Discs, disks, blocks, plates and flanged blanks
  • Maximum diameter: up to 3 meters
  • Maximum thickness: up to 500 mm
  • Single-piece weight: up to 20 tons
  • Perfect for turbine disks, valve discs and pressure vessel parts

Tubular Products

  • Pipes, tubes, tubings, piping shells, casings and barrels
  • Seamless forged construction for high-pressure applications
  • Custom lengths and wall thicknesses available
  • Supplied with complete NDT testing and certification

All our Refractaloy 26 forgings are supplied with full Mill Test Certificates (MTC) based on EN 10204 3.1, and we can provide EN 10204 3.2 third‑party co‑signed certificates upon customer request. Every forging is given strict quality inspections, including ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, chemical analysis, mechanical property testing and metallographic examination. We also offer third‑party inspection services by SGS, BV, TÜV and other well‑recognized organizations as required.

Industrial Applications of Refractaloy 26 Forged Parts

Refractaloy 26 (AISI 690) is widely used in industries where parts must withstand extreme temperatures, high pressures and mechanical stress. It has a unique combination of properties ,so that it is the best choice material for the following important applications:

Precision Refractaloy 26 turbine components including blades, valve seats and rings for power generation applications

Power Generation Industry (Primary Application)

Refractaloy 26 is widely used in both gas and steam turbines for power generation plants worldwide. It has excellent high-temperature strength and creep resistance so that it can work reliably even under the most severe conditions:

  • Gas and steam turbine blades, vanes and buckets
  • Turbine disks, impellers and blisks
  • Turbine guide rings, seal rings, labyrinth rings and packing seals
  • Diaphragms, diaphragm nozzles and rotor end rings
  • Gas turbine LPT 1st & 2nd stage turbine casings
  • Power plant steam turbine control and reheat valve discs
  • MSV/GV/CV/CRV valve seats, valve cores, valve sleeves and spools
  • Main steam valve covers, bonnets and sleeves
  • Turbine valve spindles, stems and rods
  • Combined-cycle power plant parts

Oil & Gas Industry

In the oil and gas industry, Refractaloy 26 is used for parts that must withstand high temperatures, high pressures and corrosive environments:

  • High-temperature and high-pressure valve parts
  • Compressor blades and impellers for gas processing plants
  • Wellhead equipment and Christmas tree parts
  • Subsea pipeline connectors and flanges
  • Refinery and petrochemical processing equipment

Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry relies on Refractaloy 26 for critical engine parts that need excellent performance at elevated temperatures:

  • Aircraft engine turbine parts
  • Combustion chamber parts
  • Exhaust system parts
  • Afterburner parts

Marine Industry

Refractaloy 26 is used in marine propulsion systems and power generation equipment for ships and offshore platforms:

  • Marine propulsion system turbine parts
  • Shipboard power generation equipment
  • Offshore platform turbine parts

Proven Global Project References for Refractaloy 26 Forgings

Our Refractaloy 26 (Z6NKCDT38) forged parts have been successfully used in many important projects worldwide, demonstrating our ability to meet the highest quality standards and delivery requirements:

Asia Pacific Region

  1. Canta Ratchaburi Power Plant, Thailand: Supplied Refractaloy 26 forged bars for steam turbine valve assemblies, guaranteeing reliable operation at temperatures up to 650°C and pressures up to 160 bar.
  2. Multiple Thermal Power Plants, China: Provided Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong provinces hundreds of tons of forged turbine disks, blades, and valve parts for combined-cycle power generation plants.
  3. Petrochemical Complex, Singapore: Provided R26 forged valve bodies and seats for high-temperature hydrocarbon processing units.

Europe & North America

  1. Leading European Aerospace Companies: Supplied Refractaloy 26 forged parts for aircraft engine turbine systems. All parts come with full EN 10204 3.2 third-party certification and have been tested by 100% ultrasonic inspection according to the aerospace quality plans set by the customer.
  2. Power Generation Plants, Germany: Delivered Refractaloy 26 seamless rolled rings for gas turbine casings and rotor parts.
  3. Oil Refinery, United States: Provided custom R26 forged parts for processing equipment that work at high-temperature

Middle East & Africa

  1. Multiple Oil and Gas Projects, Saudi Arabia: Supplied R26 forged valves and piping parts for high-temperature hydrocarbon processing facilities.
  2. Combined-Cycle Power Plant, UAE: Delivered Refractaloy 26 turbine blades and valve parts for a 2000 MW power generation facility.

Detailed Refractaloy 26 Material Specifications

Chemical Composition (%)

Refractaloy 26 Chemical Composition per AMS 5760
ElementStandard Range (AMS 5760)Typical Value (Our Production)
Nickel (Ni)35.00 – 39.0036.6
Cobalt (Co)18.00 – 22.0020.0
Chromium (Cr)16.00 – 20.0018.0
Titanium (Ti)2.50 – 3.002.59
Molybdenum (Mo)2.50 – 3.503.19
Boron (B)0.001 – 0.010.005
Silicon (Si)≤ 1.500.36
Manganese (Mn)≤ 1.000.31
Aluminum (Al)≤ 0.250.22
Carbon (C)≤ 0.080.046
Sulfur (S)≤ 0.0300.002
Phosphorus (P)≤ 0.0300.009
Iron (Fe)BalanceBalance

Precision Heat Treatment Process

Refractaloy 26 responds to a carefully controlled precipitation-hardening heat treatment process to get its improved mechanical properties. Our experienced metallurgists strictly adhere to the following process parameters:

  1. Solution Treatment:
    • Holding temperature: 1025°C ± 10°C
    • Holding time: Minimum 12 hours (sufficient for complete recrystallization and uniform grain matrix)
    • Cooling: Rapid oil or water quenching to room temperature
  2. Two-Step Ageing Treatment:
    • First ageing: 815°C ± 8°C for minimum 20 hours, followed by controlled furnace cooling to 730°C
    • Second ageing: 730°C ± 8°C for minimum 20 hours, followed by air cooling to room temperature

This precise heat treatment process develops the gamma prime (γ') precipitates that give Refractaloy 26 its excellent high-temperature strength and creep resistance.

Guaranteed Mechanical Properties

  • Hardness: 262–331 HB (26–35.5 HRC)
  • Room Temperature Tensile Strength: Minimum 1005 MPa (145,000 PSI)
  • Room Temperature Yield Strength (0.2%): Minimum 550 MPa (80,000 PSI)
  • Elongation: Minimum 13%
  • Reduction of Area: Minimum 20%
  • High-Temperature Rupture Strength:
    • 565°C at 610 MPa: Minimum 100 hours
    • 650°C at 610 MPa: Minimum 100 hours
    • Elongation after rupture: Not less than 5%
  • Grain Size: Minimum Grade 3 (according to UNI EN ISO 2624)

Physical & Thermal Properties of Refractaloy 26

Besides mechanical strength, the physical and thermal properties of Refractaloy 26 are equally important for engineers performing thermal stress calculations, tolerance stack‑up analyses, and heat transfer modeling. The data below represents measured values from our production batches and aligns with published AMS 5760 material specifications:

Refractaloy 26 Physical & Thermal Properties
PropertyValue / RangeTest Condition
Density8.00 g/cm³ (0.289 lb/in³)Room temperature
Melting Range1315 – 1370°C (2400 – 2500°F)
Elastic Modulus (Young's Modulus)~200 GPa (29,000 ksi)Room temperature
Elastic Modulus at 538°C~179 GPa (26,000 ksi)538°C / 1000°F
Elastic Modulus at 760°C~158 GPa (22,900 ksi)760°C / 1400°F
Thermal Conductivity12.5 W/m·K (87 BTU·in/hr·ft²·°F)21°C / 70°F
Thermal Conductivity at 538°C19.4 W/m·K (134 BTU·in/hr·ft²·°F)538°C / 1000°F
Mean Coefficient of Thermal Expansion14.4 μm/m·°C (8.0 μin/in·°F)21 – 538°C (70 – 1000°F)
Mean CTE at elevated range15.8 μm/m·°C (8.8 μin/in·°F)21 – 760°C (70 – 1400°F)
Specific Heat Capacity460 J/kg·K (0.11 BTU/lb·°F)Room temperature
Electrical Resistivity1.20 μΩ·m (47 μΩ·in)Room temperature
Poisson's Ratio0.30Room temperature
Magnetic Permeability< 1.003 (essentially non-magnetic)Room temperature

Jiangsu Liangyi Metallurgist's Note: Compared with conventional steels (typically 40–50 W/m·K), Refractaloy 26 has relatively low thermal conductivity — a main factor in design. Parts must be heated and cooled at controlled rates to prevent steep thermal gradients that can lead to thermal stress cracking. In our forging facility, R26 billets are always preheated in stages: first heated to 850°C and held, then ramped up to forging temperature. This makes sure that the temperature is evenly spread across the whole cross-section before pressing starts.

Comprehensive Quality Control & Testing

All our Refractaloy 26 forgings are strictly controlled in the whole  production  process to make sure they meet or exceed international standards. Our testing procedures include:

  • Chemical Analysis: Spectrometric analysis of each heat to verify composition
  • Hardness Testing: Brinell and Rockwell hardness testing at both ends of each bar
  • Macrographic Examination: Etching inspection to check for internal defects and uniformity
  • Grain Size Testing: Metallographic examination to ensure proper grain matrix
  • Room Temperature Tensile Testing: To verify strength and ductility properties
  • High-Temperature Tensile and Creep Testing: To ensure performance at operating temperatures
  • Ultrasonic Inspection (UT): Per ASTM A388 to detect internal flaws
  • Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): To detect surface and near-surface defects
  • Non-Metallic Inclusion Analysis: To ensure material cleanliness
  • Dimensional Inspection: Precision measurement of all important dimensions

Refractaloy 26 International Standards Equivalency Guide

 One of the most common points of confusion for procurement teams is that Refractaloy 26 is marketed under various designations and specification numbers across different countries and industries. A part specified as “Z6NKCDT38” in a French nuclear power project and one specified as “AMS 5760” in a U.S. aerospace standard belong to the same alloy family in terms of chemical composition and performance. The table below provides a clear cross‑reference guide, built on our more than 25 years of experience serving customers in more than 50 countries:

Refractaloy 26 — Global Standard Designations Cross-Reference
DesignationIssuing Body / CountryStandard DocumentApplies ToPrimary Use Sector
Refractaloy 26Westinghouse Electric Corp. (USA) — Trade NameOriginal Trade DesignationAll wrought formsPower generation, general industry
AMS 5760SAE International (USA)AMS 5760 (Aerospace Material Specification)Bars, forgings, ringsAerospace, defense, power generation
AISI 690AISI (American Iron and Steel Institute, USA)AISI Type 690Wrought alloy designationGeneral engineering reference
Z6NKCDT38AFNOR (France)NF A 05-051 / NF A 36-206Bars, forgingsFrench nuclear and power generation industry
R26 / R-26Generic shorthand (International)N/A — abbreviated trade referenceAll formsProcurement shorthand, global MRO market
UNS N07001ASTM / SAE (USA)Unified Numbering SystemClosest UNS group (Waspalloy family; R26 is closely related)Engineering reference only

Procurement Tip from Jiangsu Liangyi: When issuing an RFQ, we recommend specifying both the trade name (Refractaloy 26) and the applicable standard (such as AMS 5760) in your purchase order. This avoids ambiguity in customs clearance, third-party inspection, and the issuance of Mill Test Certificates. Our quality department systematically cross-verifies all four main material designations before every certificate is released.

How Refractaloy 26 Compares to Alternative High-Temperature Alloys

Engineers choosing materials for high-temperature turbine and valve applications often compare Refractaloy 26 with Inconel 718, Waspalloy, A-286, and Nimonic 80A. Each alloy has a unique performance profile and cost structure. The comparison below is based on our production experience and is intended for guidance only — not as a substitute for formal materials engineering review for your specific operating conditions.

Refractaloy 26 vs. Common Alternative Alloys — Key Property Comparison
Property / FactorRefractaloy 26 (AMS 5760)Inconel 718 (AMS 5662)Waspalloy (AMS 5704)A-286 (AMS 5737)
Primary Alloy SystemNi-Cr-Co-FeNi-Cr-Fe-Mo-NbNi-Cr-Co-MoFe-Ni-Cr
Ni Content (%)35 – 3950 – 55Bal. (~57)24 – 27
Max Continuous Service Temp.760°C (1400°F)650°C (1200°F)870°C (1600°F)700°C (1292°F)
RT Tensile Strength (min.)1005 MPa1275 MPa1275 MPa895 MPa
Creep Resistance (650°C)★★★★☆ Excellent★★★☆☆ Good★★★★★ Superior★★★☆☆ Good
Long-term Microstructural Stability★★★★★ Exceptional★★★☆☆ Moderate (TCP phases)★★★★☆ Very Good★★★★☆ Very Good
Weldability★★★☆☆ Moderate (PWHT req'd)★★★★☆ Good★★☆☆☆ Difficult (PWHT critical)★★★★☆ Good
Machinability (rel. to 304 SS)~20%~15%~15%~35%
Relative Raw Material CostMediumMedium-HighHighLow-Medium
Best ForSteam turbine valves, long-cycle valve seats, power plant parts needing excellent dimensional stability over decades of serviceRotating aerospace parts, disk forgings where very high RT strength dominatesGas turbine hot section parts at the highest temperatures; critical aerospace rotating partsModerate-temperature bolt and fastener applications; lower-cost alternative for <650°C service

From our experience supplying all four of these alloys over 25+ years, the most common switching patterns we see from customers are:

  • A-286 → Refractaloy 26: When a power plant upgrade increases steam parameters above 600°C and the existing A-286 valve seats begin showing accelerated creep deformation. R26's superior creep life at 650°C justifies the material cost premium.
  • Inconel 718 → Refractaloy 26: In long-duration steam turbine applications (10,000+ hours between overhauls), Inconel 718 can form undesirable delta (δ) phase precipitates at 650°C that reduce toughness. R26's cobalt content significantly delays this microstructural degradation.
  • Waspalloy → Refractaloy 26: When cost reduction is needed without sacrificing performance below 760°C. For power generation applications that do not reach Waspalloy's temperature sweet spot (>800°C), R26 delivers comparable performance at a meaningfully lower alloy cost.

Weldability of Refractaloy 26 — Practical Guidelines

Refractaloy 26 is weldable, but demands carefully qualified welding procedures. As a precipitation‑hardening alloy, welding R26 in its aged (hardened) condition carries a high risk of strain‑age cracking — a failure mode where residual welding stresses combined with precipitation kinetics lead to intergranular cracking during post‑weld heat treatment. The guidelines below are based on our internally qualified welding procedures and practical field feedback from our worldwide customers:

Recommended Welding Methods

  • Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW / TIG): Preferred method for Refractaloy 26. Low heat input and excellent arc control minimize the risk of hot cracking. All repair welds on finished forgings in our facility use GTAW exclusively.
  • Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW / MIG): Acceptable for heavier structural welds, but requires careful parameter control to avoid excessive dilution and heat input.
  • Electron Beam Welding (EBW): Used in aerospace applications where maximum joint efficiency and minimum heat-affected zone are required. Generally not applicable for field repairs.
  • Avoid Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): Not recommended for critical R26 applications due to the higher risk of hydrogen-induced cracking and lack of precise heat input control.

Pre-Weld & Post-Weld Procedure

  • Weld in the solution-treated (annealed) condition whenever possible. Welding aged material dramatically increases strain-age cracking risk. If field repair of an aged component is unavoidable, consult a qualified welding engineer.
  • Pre-heat to 150–200°C for sections thicker than 25 mm to reduce thermal gradient and minimize residual stress buildup.
  • Use matching or over-alloyed filler wire. We recommend Inconel 82 (ERNiCr-3) or Inconel 625 (ERNiCrMo-3) filler material depending on the application and joint design.
  • Post-Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT): Full re-solution treatment at 1025°C followed by the standard two-step ageing cycle is required to fully restore mechanical properties. Stress-relief-only PWHT is not sufficient to eliminate susceptibility to delayed cracking.
  • Interpass temperature: Keep below 150°C between passes to avoid excessive grain growth in the heat-affected zone.

Jiangsu Liangyi Field Observation:  In over 25 years of supplying R26 forgings to power plants throughout Asia, Europe and the Middle East, nearly all weld repair failures we have been asked to investigate share the same root cause: repairs were carried out on aged parts without subsequent re-solution heat treatment. If your maintenance schedule does not allow for a full re-solution cycle, we strongly recommend designing parts prone to repair — such as valve stems and spindles — as replaceable parts rather than field-repairable parts.

Machining Refractaloy 26 — From Our CNC Workshop

 Refractaloy 26 is classified as a difficult-to-machine superalloy, with a machinability rating of roughly 20% compared to 304 stainless steel (which is already regarded as moderately difficult to machine). This is not a drawback of the alloy — it is a direct result of its outstanding high-temperature strength.Nevertheless, with the proper tooling strategy and cutting parameters, consistent and cost-effective machining is fully achievable. Our in-house CNC team machines R26 forgings daily, and the following guidance reflects our optimized shop-floor practices:

Why Refractaloy 26 Is Challenging to Machine

  • Work hardening: R26 work-hardens rapidly during cutting. A tool that dwells or rubs without cutting — even briefly — creates a hardened surface layer that dramatically accelerates tool wear on the next pass.
  • High cutting forces: The alloy's elevated hot hardness means the cutting tool must do significant work even at the chip formation zone, generating high heat and tool tip loading.
  • Abrasive carbide particles: The titanium and molybdenum carbides in R26's microstructure are highly abrasive, causing flank wear much faster than on standard steels.
  • Built-up edge (BUE) tendency: At too-low cutting speeds, R26 has a tendency to weld onto tool edges, causing sudden catastrophic tool failure and poor surface finish.

Recommended Machining Parameters for Refractaloy 26

Refractaloy 26 — Recommended CNC Machining Starting Parameters
OperationTool MaterialCutting Speed (Vc)Feed Rate (f)Depth of Cut (ap)Coolant
Rough TurningCarbide (PVD-coated, grade P25–P35)15 – 25 m/min0.2 – 0.4 mm/rev2 – 5 mmFlood (high-pressure preferred)
Finish TurningCarbide (PVD Al-TiN coated)20 – 35 m/min0.05 – 0.15 mm/rev0.3 – 1.0 mmFlood
Rough MillingSolid carbide or carbide insert10 – 20 m/min0.05 – 0.12 mm/tooth≤ 5 mm radialFlood or MQL
DrillingSolid carbide, TiAlN coated8 – 15 m/min0.02 – 0.06 mm/revFull diameterHigh-pressure through-tool
GrindingCBN or Al₂O₃ wheel20 – 30 m/s (wheel speed)0.005 – 0.02 mm/passLight infeedFlood, no dry grinding

Jiangsu Liangyi CNC Workshop Rule:  Never stop tool feed while the spindle is still rotating on an R26 workpiece. Even a fraction of a second of tool rubbing creates a work-hardened spot that can crack an insert immediately on the next pass. Our operators are trained to always retract the tool before any programmed dwell or manual intervention. We also program roughing passes to maintain a constant chip load — any variation exceeding 15% triggers a feed override alarm on our CNC controllers.

The Refractaloy 26 Forging Process — A Manufacturer's Inside View

Understanding how Refractaloy 26 is forged — not just that it can be forged — helps procurement and engineering teams make better decisions about tolerances, lead times, and realistic expectations for finished part quality. We are sharing this information because transparency about our process is the foundation of the trust we have built with customers in over 50 countries over 27 years.

Why Forging Is Superior to Casting for Refractaloy 26

Some customers initially inquire about cast R26 components, particularly for complex geometries. While casting is technically feasible, for structural applications in turbines and valves, forging consistently outperforms casting for six measurable reasons:

  • Refined grain structure: Forging mechanical work breaks down the coarse columnar grains that form during solidification, producing a uniform fine-grained structure with superior fatigue resistance.
  • Absence of porosity: Cast R26 can contain shrinkage porosity and gas porosity that — even when detected by UT — require costly repair and re-inspection. Forged billets from VIM+ESR stock are inherently pore-free.
  • Directional grain flow: Our forge press operators orient the workpiece so that final grain flow aligns with the primary stress direction of the part — a geometric advantage that castings structurally cannot replicate.
  • Superior creep resistance: The controlled deformation of forging further disperses the γ' and γ'' strengthening precipitates more uniformly than casting, yielding consistently better high-temperature creep properties in independent laboratory testing.
  • Better mechanical property consistency: Casting introduces significant property scatter due to dendritic segregation. Forging, combined with our ESR refining process, yields a tighter property distribution — which means your safety margins are real, not just nominal.
  • Regulatory acceptance: Major power turbine OEM specifications — including Siemens Energy, GE Steam Power, and MHI — mandate wrought (forged or rolled) material for pressure-bearing components. Cast R26 cannot meet these specifications regardless of its measured properties.

Refractaloy 26 Forging Temperature & Process Window

R26 has a relatively narrow forging window compared to carbon steels or even 316 stainless steel, which is why inexperienced suppliers often struggle to produce defect-free forgings. Our forging parameters, refined over hundreds of production runs, are:

  • Billet Preheat Temperature: 850°C step hold (minimum 2 hours) → ramp to 1150°C final furnace temperature
  • Forging Start Temperature: 1100 – 1175°C (above this range, excessive grain growth occurs; below, the alloy becomes too stiff for clean forging)
  • Minimum Finish Temperature: 980°C — any forging blow delivered below 980°C risks cracking from adiabatic shear or surface tearing
  • Heating Rate Restriction: Maximum 150°C/hour below 800°C to prevent thermal shock in large cross-sections (billets over 500 mm diameter)
  • Reduction Ratio: Minimum 3:1 true reduction needed from the VIM+ESR ingot to get the grain refinement that meets AMS 5760 grain size requirements
  • Number of Heats: Large forgings (over 5 tons) typically require 3–5 separate furnace heats with intermediate forging passes. Attempting to complete the work in fewer heats risks centerline cracking from thermal gradient stresses.
  • Die Temperature: Dies are preheated to 200–300°C to reduce thermal shock on the workpiece surface at first contact

Jiangsu Liangyi Production Insight: The most common defect we identify when inspecting forgings from other suppliers — and one we fully eliminate in our own production via strict process controls — is what we refer to as "cold short" cracking: surface tears or internal chevron cracks that form when the forging is struck below 1000°C. These cracks often lie just beneath the surface and remain undetected without proper ultrasonic testing, creating serious hazards in service.Our press operators use calibrated infrared pyrometers at each station and must return the workpiece to the furnace if the surface temperature drops below 1020°C — keeping a 40°C safety margin above the important limit.

Corrosion & Oxidation Resistance in Real Operating Environments

The corrosion resistance of Refractaloy 26 is multi-dimensional — not simply "it resists corrosion." Engineers specifying R26 for specific environments should understand its performance profile across different corrosion mechanisms:

  • High-Temperature Oxidation (400–870°C): R26 contains 16–20% chromium, which forms a dense, protective Cr₂O₃ oxide layer that delivers excellent oxidation resistance. In our long-term oxidation tests on production-grade material, the average mass gain after 1,000 hours at 760°C in air is less than 0.8 mg/cm² — well within the acceptable limits specified by most turbine original equipment manufacturers.
  • Sulfidation Resistance: In gas turbine applications where fuel sulfur content exceeds 0.1%, sulfidation attack can become a critical issue. With 18–22% cobalt content, R26 offers better sulfidation resistance than iron‑based alloys, though it is less resistant than high‑chromium alloys such as Alloy 625 under severe sulfidizing conditions.
  • Steam Oxidation (for steam turbine applications): In high-pressure steam at 500–700°C, R26 exhibits a low oxidation rate and forms a protective, tightly adherent oxide scale. In our customer service records, oxide layer spallation under thermal cycling has not been identified as a field failure mode for R26 valve parts.
  • Aqueous Corrosion: R26 is not usually chosen for harsh aqueous corrosion environments, such as low‑temperature acidic or chloride‑containing conditions. For these applications, alloys like Inconel 625 or Hastelloy C‑276 are more suitable. R26 is selected primarily for its high‑temperature mechanical strength and thermal stability, rather than its room‑temperature corrosion resistance.
  • Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC): In chloride-containing environments, the austenitic structure of R26 can be susceptible to SCC, though this is rarely a concern in its primary application environments (dry steam, combustion gases, and hydrocarbon streams above 200°C where chlorides are not active).

Packaging, Certification & Delivery Documentation

 We understand that for important industrial parts, documentation is just as important as the part itself. A Refractaloy 26 valve seat without a fully traceable 3.2 certificate cannot be installed in a certified power plant, no matter how precise its dimensions are. Below is our standard document package supplied with every Refractaloy 26 forging:

Standard Certification Documents (Included with Every Order)

  • Mill Test Certificate (MTC) per EN 10204 3.1: Issued and signed by our in-house Quality Manager, certifying the full chemical composition and mechanical test results of the specific heat(s) used in your order. The certificate references the actual test bar heat treatment cycle and test machine calibration records.
  • Ultrasonic Test Report: Full UT scan results per ASTM A388 or equivalent, showing the scanning plan, equipment calibration, and acceptance record for each individual piece.
  • Dimensional Inspection Report: A dimensional check sheet signed by our QC inspector confirming compliance with your drawing or our standard tolerances.
  • Heat Treatment Record: Time-temperature charts from our data-logging furnace controllers show the solution treatment and aging cycles that were used on your specific production lot.
  • Positive Material Identification (PMI) Report: XRF analysis results confirming alloy identity, provided as standard for all nickel alloy orders.

Optional & Upgraded Documentation (Available on Request)

  • EN 10204 3.2 Certificate: Third-party witnessed and co-signed by an independent inspector (SGS, BV, TÜV, Lloyd's Register, or customer-nominated inspector). Typically adds 5–10 business days to lead time for inspector scheduling.
  • Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) Report per ASTM E709
  • Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) Report per ASTM E165
  • Grain Size Test Report: Full metallographic examination with photomicrographs confirming minimum ASTM grain size per AMS 5760
  • High-Temperature Tensile Test Report: Mechanical testing at elevated temperature (e.g., 565°C or 650°C) if your specification needs this data
  • Creep / Stress-Rupture Test Report: Available with extended lead time; typically 12–16 weeks additional for tests at 565°C / 650°C at 610 MPa
  • Aerospace-Compatible Process Documentation: Full heat treatment records, NDT reports, and material traceability packages are provided, formatted to support customers’ aerospace qualification submissions.Note: Jiangsu Liangyi is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Customers needing NADCAP-accredited processing are advised to consult our technical team to review requirements and arrange suitable subcontracting or inspection services.
  • Customer-Specific Quality Plan (PPAP / ISIR): We can accommodate most customer-specific first-article inspection requirements

Packaging Standards for Safe Global Delivery

  • Bars and rods: Bundled with steel strapping, end-capped with plastic protectors, and wrapped in waterproof PE film. Long bars (over 3 m) are loaded on purpose-built wooden cradles for sea freight.
  • Rings and discs: Each piece individually tagged, wrapped in VCI (Vapour Corrosion Inhibitor) paper, then packed in custom-cut wooden crates. Weight is distributed evenly to prevent deformation during ocean transit.
  • Machined finished parts: Important surfaces are coated with rust-preventive oil, wrapped in foam padding, and packed in rigid wooden boxes. Precision bore and sealing faces receive additional felt or foam protectors.
  • Export marking: All packages are marked with part number, heat number, gross/net weight, and handling instructions (e.g., "Fragile — Do Not Drop") compliant with IATA/IMDG regulations.

How to Request a Refractaloy 26 Forging Quotation — Step by Step

We get RFQs from more than 50 countries and have streamlined our quotation process to give you a complete, accurate quote within 24 hours for standard inquiries. To avoid back-and-forth delays, please include the following information in your initial inquiry:

  1. Material Specification: State the needed standard (e.g., "Refractaloy 26 per AMS 5760" or "Z6NKCDT38 per NF A 36-206"). If you have a customer-specific material specification, attach it as a PDF.
  2. Product Shape & Dimensions: Please send us your engineering drawing in PDF or DXF format, or let us know the general size of the forging envelope, including diameter, length, thickness, outer diameter and inner diameter. Provide both the rough forging envelope and the final dimensions for machined parts,
  3. Quantity & Delivery Schedule: State the number of pieces required and your target delivery date. If this is a repeat/blanket order, share the annual forecast — we may be able to offer staggered delivery at better pricing.
  4. Required Certifications: Specify whether you need EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2 certification, and whether any third-party inspector needs to be involved in witness testing.
  5. Special Testing Requirements: List any additional NDT, high-temperature mechanical testing, or special process requirements beyond our standard scope.
  6. Incoterms & Port of Destination: Indicate your preferred Incoterms (FOB Qingdao/Shanghai, CIF, DAP, etc.) and destination port or city so we can include freight in the quotation if needed.

Send your RFQ to sales@jnmtforgedparts.com or via WhatsApp at +86-13585067993. Our technical sales team — fluent in English and Chinese — will acknowledge your inquiry within 2 hours during business days (GMT+8, Monday–Friday 08:00–18:00).

Why Choose Jiangsu Liangyi as Your Refractaloy 26 Forging Partner?

When you choose Jiangsu Liangyi for your Refractaloy 26 forging needs, you will benefit a lot from the following aspect:

  • 25+ Years of Specialized Experience: We have been manufacturing high-temperature alloy forgings since 1997, with extensive expertise in Refractaloy 26 and other nickel-based superalloys.
  • Complete Vertical Integration: From VIM+ESR steel melting to finished machined parts, we control every step of the manufacturing process.
  • Advanced Manufacturing Equipment: Our Jiangyin facility has 2000–6300 ton hydraulic presses, 5-meter ring rolling machines and state-of-the-art heat treatment furnaces.
  • In-House Testing Laboratory: Fully equipped with chemical, mechanical and metallographic testing equipment to guarantee product quality.
  • Global Delivery Capability: We export to over 50 countries worldwide with reliable shipping and on-time delivery.
  • Custom Manufacturing Solutions: We can make Refractaloy 26 forgings to meet your exact drawings and specifications.
  • Full Quality Assurance: ISO 9001:2015 certified, with capability to issue EN 10204 3.1 certificates and to arrange EN 10204 3.2 third-party co-signed certificates. Third-party inspection by SGS, BV, TÜV and Lloyd's Register is available on request.
  • Competitive Pricing: Direct from our Jiangyin manufacturing facility with no middlemen, guaranteeing the best value for your investment.
  • Technical Expertise:  Our experienced metallurgists and engineers can provide technical support and material selection guidance.
  • Fast Lead Times: We have efficient production processes and large inventory of raw materials so that we can meet tight delivery schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refractaloy 26 Forgings

What is Refractaloy 26?
Refractaloy 26 (also called R26, R‑26, AISI 690, Z6NKCDT38, and AMS 5760) is a precipitation‑hardening nickel‑chromium‑cobalt‑iron superalloy with 35–39% Ni, 18–22% Co, and 16–20% Cr.It is made for uses that need great strength and resistance to creep at high temperatures — up to 760°C (1400°F) for continuous use and 870°C (1600°F) for occasional use.The alloy gets its high-performance qualities through a controlled three-step heat treatment: solution treatment at 1025°C, then two aging steps at 815°C and 730°C, which form gamma prime (γ') particles to give excellent high-temperature strength.
What is the maximum temperature Refractaloy 26 can withstand?
Refractaloy 26 is designed for continuous operation at temperatures up to 760°C (1400°F) and can withstand intermittent temperatures up to 870°C (1600°F) for short periods.
What standards do your Refractaloy 26 forgings comply with?
Our Refractaloy 26 forgings meet AMS 5760, AISI 690, Z6NKCDT38, ASTM, EN and DIN. We can also meet custom specifications provided by our customers.
What is the typical lead time for Refractaloy 26 forgings?
Standard lead times for Refractaloy 26 forgings is 4–8 weeks , the actual lead time depends on drawings, size and quantity of the parts. We can often speed up production for urgent orders .
Do you provide machining services for Refractaloy 26 forgings?
Yes, we offer a full range of CNC machining services ,such as turning, milling, drilling, grinding and finishing. We can supply Refractaloy 26 parts in rough forged, semi-finished or fully finished condition according to your requirements.
Can you provide third-party inspection for Refractaloy 26 forgings?
Yes, we can arrange third-party inspection from SGS, BV, TÜV, Lloyd's and other reputable organizations upon request. We also welcome customer witness inspections at our Jiangyin facility.
What are the mechanical properties of Refractaloy 26 forgings?
Guaranteed mechanical properties for Refractaloy 26 (AMS 5760) forgings include: Hardness 262–331 HB (26–35.5 HRC), tensile strength minimum 1005 MPa (145,000 PSI), yield strength (0.2%) minimum 550 MPa (80,000 PSI), elongation minimum 13%, reduction of area minimum 20%, and high-temperature rupture life at 565°C and 650°C at 610 MPa of minimum 100 hours.
What is the density and melting point of Refractaloy 26?
Refractaloy 26 has a density of 8.00 g/cm³ (0.289 lb/in³) at room temperature and a melting range of 1315–1370°C (2400–2500°F). Its elastic modulus is about 200 GPa at room temperature, and it goes down to around 158 GPa at 760°C. The average coefficient of thermal expansion is 14.4 μm/m·°C between 21–538°C, and it increases to 15.8 μm/m·°C between 21–760°C.
Is Refractaloy 26 weldable?
Yes, Refractaloy 26 can be welded, but it needs carefully tested and approved welding steps. GTAW (TIG) welding is the best method to use. Welding must always be done when the part is in the solution-treated (annealed) state, not after it has been aged, to prevent strain-age cracking. Preheating to 150–200°C is suggested for parts thicker than 25 mm. Post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) — including full re-solution at 1025°C followed by the standard two-step ageing — is needed to bring back all mechanical properties. Filler materials like Inconel 82 (ERNiCr-3) or Inconel 625 (ERNiCrMo-3) are recommended.
How difficult is it to machine Refractaloy 26?
Refractaloy 26 is about 20% as easy to machine as 304 stainless steel, so it is classed as a difficult-to-machine superalloy. The main problems are fast work hardening, high cutting forces, and hard carbide particles that wear tools out quickly. PVD-coated carbide tools are recommended. Typical rough turning settings are 15–25 m/min cutting speed and 0.2–0.4 mm/rev feed. High-pressure flood coolant is a must. The most important shop rule: never let the tool stop or rub without cutting, as this will quickly form a hardened surface layer.
How does Refractaloy 26 compare to Inconel 718?
Inconel 718 provides higher room-temperature tensile strength (minimum 1275 MPa compared to 1005 MPa for R26) and better weldability, so that it is more suitable for rotating aerospace parts. However, Refractaloy 26 can be used at a higher maximum service temperature (760°C continuous compared to 650°C for IN718), has much better long-term structural stability above 650°C (Inconel 718 may form brittle delta phase), and has significantly better creep resistance in steam turbine setups with long maintenance cycles. For power generation valve seats and steam turbine parts designed to work for over 10,000 hours, R26 is usually the better choice.
What documents do you provide with Refractaloy 26 forgings?
Standard documentation included with every order: EN 10204 3.1 Mill Test Certificate (chemical composition + mechanical properties), Ultrasonic Test Report according to ASTM A388, Dimensional Inspection Report, Heat Treatment Records with furnace time-temperature charts, and PMI (Positive Material Identification) by XRF. On request, we also provide EN 10204 3.2 (third-party witnessed) certificates, Magnetic Particle Test (MT) reports, Liquid Penetrant Test (PT) reports, grain size metallographic reports, and high-temperature mechanical test data. Third-party inspection by SGS, BV, TÜV, Lloyd's or customer-nominated inspectors is available.
What information do I need to provide to get a Refractaloy 26 forging quotation?
To get an accurate quotation within 24 hours, please provide: (1) Material specification — e.g., "Refractaloy 26 per AMS 5760"; (2) Engineering drawing or rough forging dimensions (diameter/length/thickness/OD/ID); (3) Quantity and target delivery date; (4) Needed certification level — EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2; (5) Any special NDT or testing requirements; (6) Incoterms and destination port. Send your RFQ to sales@jnmtforgedparts.com by email or via WhatsApp to +86-13585067993. Our technical sales team will reply within 24 hours during business hours (GMT+8, Monday–Friday).

Contact Us for Refractaloy 26 Forging Quotations

Jiangsu Liangyi Co., Limited is your trusted partner for high-quality Refractaloy 26 (R26, R-26, AISI 690, Z6NKCDT38, AMS 5760) forged parts. As a top manufacturer located in Jiangyin, China, we are committed to providing our global customers with great quality products, competitive pricing and excellent service.

📧 Inquiry Email: sales@jnmtforgedparts.com

📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +86-13585067993

🌐 Website: https://www.jnmtforgedparts.com

📍 Address: Chengchang Industry Park, Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province, China 214400

Get Your Free Refractaloy 26 Forging Quote Now

Send us your custom drawings, material requirements, quantity and delivery schedule for a detailed quotation today! Our experienced sales team will respond to your inquiry within 24 hours with competitive pricing and technical information.

We also manufacture a wide range of other high-temperature alloy forgings including Inconel 718, Inconel 625, Nimonic 80A and Waspalloy. Contact us to learn more about our complete product range.