Stellite 12 Powder

Overview of Stellite 12 Powder

Stellite 12 powder is a cobalt-based alloy powder known for its incredible wear resistance, heat stability, and toughness, making it a popular choice in industrial applications where performance under extreme conditions is a must. This particular alloy combines cobalt with chromium, tungsten, and other elements to provide a versatile balance of hardness and wear resistance without compromising on toughness, even at elevated temperatures. Stellite 12 is often applied in processes like hard-facing, plasma spraying, and thermal spraying to enhance the surface durability of components used in aerospace, energy, automotive, and manufacturing industries.

This guide dives into the specifications, applications, pros and cons, and unique qualities of Stellite 12 powder, examining why it’s often the preferred choice over other metal powders for specific industrial uses. Additionally, we will break down the distinct models available under the Stellite family, comparing their features and helping you find the best-suited powder for your needs.

What is Stellite 12 Powder?

Stellite 12 is part of the well-known Stellite family of alloys, which are known for their wear resistance, high-temperature strength, and hardness. While other Stellite alloys focus on maximizing specific traits, Stellite 12 strikes a balance that makes it useful across a wide range of applications. The powder form of Stellite 12 allows for application in thermal spraying and other coating methods, making it suitable for environments where surface durability is critical.

Let’s look deeper into the composition, properties, and characteristics of Stellite 12 powder in the following sections.

Stellite 12 Powder

Composition of Stellite 12 Powder

The unique strength of Stellite 12 powder comes from its carefully balanced composition of cobalt, chromium, tungsten, and small amounts of other metals. Each element contributes specific properties to the alloy:

ElementApproximate Percentage (%)Function
Cobalt (Co)50-70%Base element providing high temperature strength and wear resistance
Chromium (Cr)25-30%Improves oxidation resistance and wear resistance
Tungsten (W)4-5%Increases hardness and toughness
Carbon (C)1.5-2%Adds hardness and enhances wear resistance
Silicon (Si)1%Enhances strength at high temperatures
Nickel (Ni)Up to 1%Improves resistance to corrosion

Key Properties of Stellite 12 Powder

Stellite 12 powder offers several distinct properties that make it an industry favorite for wear-resistant applications. Below are the critical properties of this alloy:

PropertyDescription
High HardnessStellite 12 maintains hardness in the range of 40-45 HRC, making it effective for abrasion resistance.
Excellent Wear ResistanceIdeal for conditions that demand extreme abrasion and friction handling, like cutting tools.
High-Temperature StabilityPerforms well at elevated temperatures, up to approximately 600°C, without losing hardness.
Oxidation ResistanceWith high chromium content, it resists oxidation, making it durable in high-heat environments.
Impact ToughnessCompared to harder Stellite powders, Stellite 12 offers moderate impact resistance, striking a balance between hardness and durability.

Advantages of Stellite 12 Powder

So, why choose Stellite 12 powder over other metal alloys? Here are some benefits:

  1. Versatile Hardness and Toughness: Stellite 12 provides a rare mix of hardness and toughness, making it an excellent choice for wear applications that demand both properties.
  2. Heat Resilience: Unlike softer powders, Stellite 12’s strength doesn’t degrade under high temperatures, which is critical in industrial environments with high heat or friction.
  3. Corrosion and Oxidation Resistance: Its high chromium content protects against rust and oxidation, extending component life and reducing maintenance costs.
  4. Cost Efficiency: While Stellite alloys are not the cheapest, the balance Stellite 12 offers between price and performance makes it an economical choice for demanding applications.

Types and Models of Stellite Powder

Stellite comes in various formulations, each tailored to meet different industrial requirements. Below is a list of popular Stellite powders, including Stellite 12, with a summary of each model’s key characteristics:

ModelCompositionKey FeatureCommon Applications
Stellite 1High Cobalt, Chromium, TungstenMaximum hardness and wear resistanceCutting tools, wear-resistant overlays
Stellite 6Cobalt, Chromium, CarbonBalance of wear resistance and toughnessValves, pump shafts, and aerospace components
Stellite 6BSimilar to Stellite 6 with Boron additionImproved corrosion resistanceIndustrial machinery, chemical handling
Stellite 12Cobalt, Chromium, Tungsten, CarbonHigh heat and wear resistancePlasma sprayed coatings, thermal spray applications
Stellite 20Higher Carbon than Stellite 6Better wear resistance at high temperaturesAutomotive valve seats, metal-on-metal wear surfaces
Stellite 21Cobalt with lower carbon contentGood ductility and impact resistanceMedical implants, plastic injection molding
Stellite 31Molybdenum additionIncreased corrosion resistanceMarine applications, chemical processing
Stellite 3Very high hardnessSuperior wear resistance in abrasive conditionsSand and gravel industry, drilling equipment
Stellite 4Harder than Stellite 6High wear resistance with toughnessBearings, seal rings, and valve seats
Stellite 190High Nickel alloy with BoronExcellent corrosion and oxidation resistanceAerospace, chemical, and food processing equipment

Applications of Stellite 12 Powder

Stellite 12 powder is preferred for various industrial applications due to its unique combination of properties. Here’s a breakdown of its common uses and why it’s chosen for each:

ApplicationWhy Stellite 12 is Used
Cutting ToolsHigh hardness and wear resistance make it ideal for heavy-duty cutting.
Thermal Spray CoatingsProvides durable, heat-resistant coatings in industrial equipment.
Aerospace ComponentsPerforms well under high heat and friction in aircraft engines.
Automotive Engine ValvesStellite 12’s wear resistance prolongs valve life under high-temperature stress.
Pump ShaftsMaintains structural integrity and resists abrasion in fluid-based machinery.
Plasma Spray ProcessesIdeal for surface-hardening, enhancing durability in extreme working environments.

Specifications, Grades, and Sizes of Stellite 12 Powder

For industries that rely on precision materials, understanding the specifications, available grades, and sizes of Stellite 12 powder is crucial. Different grades and particle sizes suit various applications, from coatings to component manufacturing. Below is a comprehensive table detailing the specifications, common grades, and particle sizes available for Stellite 12 powder.

Specification AspectDetails
Standard SpecificationsConforms to ASTM B815 for cobalt-chromium-tungsten alloys in powdered form
Particle SizesTypically available in 15-45µm, 45-75µm, and 75-106µm ranges, depending on application requirements
GradesStellite 12 powder is usually graded based on particle size distribution and purity levels
Melting PointApproximately 1,260°C (2,300°F)
Hardness40-45 HRC when applied via spray or thermal coating
Density8.5-8.9 g/cm³
FlowabilityHigh flowability to ensure uniform application in thermal spraying processes
PackagingAvailable in 1kg, 5kg, and 25kg containers; bulk packaging may be offered by select suppliers
Storage RequirementsShould be stored in a dry, cool place, with humidity-controlled environments to prevent clumping

Suppliers and Pricing for Stellite 12 Powder

The price of Stellite 12 powder can vary based on supplier, region, order quantity, and packaging. Below is a table with details on some well-known suppliers and general pricing trends. Note that prices are approximate and may fluctuate based on market conditions.

SupplierApproximate Price RangePackaging OptionsSpecial Offers
Kennametal Inc.$120-$150 per kg1kg, 5kg, 25kg containersBulk discounts available
Höganäs AB$130-$160 per kgCustom packaging availableVolume pricing for large orders
Praxair Surface Technologies$115-$145 per kg1kg, 10kgFrequent-buyer discounts
Oerlikon Metco$125-$155 per kgStandard and bulk packagingSpecial pricing for frequent orders
Carpenter Technology$135-$165 per kgCustomizable packagingSubscription-based pricing
International Metal Powders$120-$150 per kgFlexible optionsSpecial pricing for academic orders

Pros and Cons of Stellite 12 Powder

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of Stellite 12 powder can guide industries in choosing the best material for their applications. Here’s a rundown of the key pros and cons of using Stellite 12 powder.

ProsCons
High Wear Resistance: Stellite 12 powder has excellent abrasion resistance, ideal for demanding applications.Cost: As a premium alloy powder, it can be more expensive than other metal powders.
Heat Resistance: Performs well in high-temperature environments, maintaining its properties up to 600°C.Hardness vs. Ductility: The high hardness means it’s less ductile, so impact resistance can be limited.
Corrosion Resistance: Chromium in the composition provides strong oxidation and corrosion resistance.Specialized Storage: Requires specific storage conditions to prevent clumping.
Versatile Application: Can be used for coatings, hard-facing, and even high-wear components like valves and pumps.Processing Requirements: May require specialized thermal spraying or coating equipment.
Extended Component Life: Reduces maintenance costs by enhancing the durability of components.Difficult to Machine Post-Application: Once applied, it’s tough to machine or rework.

Comparison with Other Stellite Powder Models

Stellite 12 is not the only alloy powder in the Stellite family. To make the best choice, it’s essential to compare it with other Stellite models. Here’s how Stellite 12 stacks up against popular alternatives like Stellite 6, Stellite 20, and Stellite 21.

ModelHardness (HRC)Key FeaturesBest Suited ApplicationsComparison with Stellite 12
Stellite 635-40 HRCGood balance of wear resistance and ductilityValve seats, aerospace parts, pump shaftsStellite 12 offers higher hardness, better for abrasion
Stellite 2040-45 HRCHigh-temperature resistance and wear durabilityEngine valves, high-wear surfacesSimilar hardness, but Stellite 20 has more carbon for high-temp stability
Stellite 2130-35 HRCSuperior impact resistance, lower carbon contentMedical implants, chemical processingStellite 12 is harder but less impact-resistant
Stellite 150-55 HRCMaximum hardness, less ductilityCutting tools, extreme abrasion applicationsStellite 12 offers a middle ground between hardness and ductility
Stellite 3132-38 HRCHigh corrosion resistance with molybdenum additionMarine and chemical processing industriesLower hardness than Stellite 12, better corrosion resistance

Applications and Use Cases of Stellite 12 Powder

Stellite 12 powder is versatile, but where it truly shines is in applications demanding wear resistance and durability at elevated temperatures. Here’s an expanded look at some of its most common applications and why it’s selected for each:

IndustryApplicationReason for Choosing Stellite 12
AerospaceJet engine componentsResists high temperatures and maintains strength under intense heat and pressure.
AutomotiveEngine valves, valve seatsHigh wear resistance to extend the life of engine components exposed to friction.
ManufacturingCutting tools, milling toolsHardness and abrasion resistance make it ideal for heavy-duty cutting processes.
Oil and GasDrill components, pump shaftsCan withstand abrasive environments and retain hardness in high-pressure conditions.
MedicalSurgical tools, implantsHigh biocompatibility in certain Stellite grades (notably Stellite 21).
Chemical ProcessingValves, seal ringsResists corrosion and wear, even in chemically harsh environments.
Power GenerationTurbine blades, boilersMaintains stability under thermal cycling, enhancing durability of power components.
Stellite 12 Powder

FAQ

For quick reference, here are answers to frequently asked questions about Stellite 12 powder:

QuestionAnswer
What is Stellite 12 powder mainly used for?It’s widely used for coatings and overlays in high-wear and high-heat applications.
How does Stellite 12 compare to Stellite 6?Stellite 12 is harder, making it better for abrasive applications, while Stellite 6 has more ductility.
What industries commonly use Stellite 12 powder?Aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, and manufacturing industries are primary users.
Can Stellite 12 be used for medical applications?While Stellite 21 is preferred for biocompatibility, Stellite 12 may still be used in select cases.
How should Stellite 12 powder be stored?It should be stored in a cool, dry, and humidity-controlled environment to prevent clumping.
What is the typical hardness of Stellite 12?Stellite 12 typically has a hardness of 40-45 HRC.
Is Stellite 12 resistant to corrosion?Yes, it has high corrosion resistance due to its chromium content.
Can Stellite 12 be used for thermal spray applications?Absolutely, it’s commonly applied via plasma spray and other thermal spray methods.
What are the main limitations of Stellite 12?It is costly and can be difficult to machine once applied; specialized equipment is needed for application.
Is Stellite 12 powder eco-friendly?While durable, it is not inherently eco-friendly; disposal and production have environmental impacts.

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