The State Key Laboratory of Nickel and Cobalt Resources Comprehensive Utilization has made significant progress in the research and development of key materials for nuclear power. Through the dual-process of vacuum induction melting and vacuum arc remelting (VIM+VAR), the laboratory has successfully completed the industrial trial production of 500kg-level nickel-based Inconel 617 alloy ingots for nuclear power. The initial batch of alloy ingots meets all chemical composition and physical performance requirements, laying a solid foundation for subsequent hot rolling processes and scaled production and application.
The first Inconel 617 alloy VAR test
Inconel 617 alloy, a key structural material for the fourth-generation nuclear energy system, performs exceptionally well under extreme conditions at 700°C, possessing high temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and creep resistance. This makes it an ideal material for manufacturing critical components of advanced nuclear reactors operating in high-temperature, high-pressure, and highly corrosive environments. With the doubling down on the national "dual carbon" goals, nuclear energy is increasingly becoming prominent, bringing unprecedented opportunities for the independent innovation and high-quality development of China's nuclear power industry chain.
The first Inconel 617 alloy VAR ingot produced
In response to national strategies, the State Key Laboratory, in collaboration with Jinchuan Group, is dedicated to the research and development of the next generation of Inconel 617 alloy plate materials for nuclear power. This initiative aims to break through the bottleneck in China's key nuclear power materials field, providing support for the safety and sustainable development of the nuclear energy industry. The successful completion of this trial is a significant milestone in this strategic deployment.
Previously, the State Key Laboratory, in collaboration with relevant units, successfully developed nickel-based GH4169 strips for nuclear power and achieved mass production. The new breakthrough in the development of Inconel 617 alloy plate materials will further enrich the application of Jinchuan in the nuclear power field, enhance its core competitiveness and make a greater contribution to serving China's major strategic needs.