Nickel Alloy K403 / ZhS6K
K403 (ZhS6K) is a heat-resistant cast nickel-based superalloy designed for manufacturing components used in gas turbines and aircraft engines operating under high temperatures and significant mechanical loads. The material belongs to the group of alloys with a polycrystalline equiaxed structure and is strengthened through alloying and the precipitation of strengthening phases. It combines high-temperature strength, good casting properties, and suitability for producing components with complex geometries.
K403 alloy is used to manufacture turbine rotor and stator blades, as well as other hot-section components of power generation and gas turbine equipment. Its operating properties depend on its chemical composition, casting technology, and heat treatment conditions.
General Technical Characteristics
- Grade: K403 / ZhS6K.
- Material type: heat-resistant cast nickel-based superalloy.
- Base element: nickel (Ni).
- Structure: polycrystalline equiaxed cast structure.
- Strengthening mechanism: precipitation of the strengthening γ′ phase and alloying.
- Main alloying elements: chromium, cobalt, tungsten, molybdenum, aluminium, and titanium.
- Additional elements: carbon, boron, zirconium, and other elements according to the specification.
- Main application: gas turbines, aircraft engines, and power generation equipment.
Chemical Composition
The approximate chemical composition of K403 is as follows, wt.%:
| Element | Content, % |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | Balance |
| Chromium (Cr) | 10.0–12.0 |
| Cobalt (Co) | 4.5–6.0 |
| Tungsten (W) | 4.8–5.5 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 3.8–4.5 |
| Aluminium (Al) | 5.3–5.9 |
| Titanium (Ti) | 2.3–2.9 |
| Carbon (C) | 0.11–0.18 |
| Boron (B) | 0.012–0.022 |
| Zirconium (Zr) | 0.03–0.08 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.50 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 0.50 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.02 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.01 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 2.0 |
The values are provided for general reference. Requirements for individual elements may vary depending on the applicable standard and technical specifications. When purchasing the material, its chemical composition should be verified against the quality certificate for the specific batch. K403 and ZhS6K are listed as corresponding grades in reference tables; however, compliance with the applicable standard should be confirmed for critical components.
Mechanical and Operating Properties
- High-temperature strength. Maintains the required mechanical properties under elevated temperatures and prolonged loading.
- Creep resistance. Resists gradual deformation under constant loads at high temperatures.
- Casting properties. Suitable for manufacturing complex-shaped components using precision casting methods.
- Precipitation strengthening. The strengthening γ′ phase contributes to increased strength at elevated temperatures.
- Thermal stability. Designed for operation under intensive thermal exposure.
- Machinability. Mechanical and heat treatment capabilities depend on the material condition and technological requirements.
Technical publications describe the use of K403 in gas turbine assemblies at temperatures below 1000 °C. Guide vanes operate within their specified temperature range, while rotor blades and other components are subject to more restrictive operating limits. The actual permissible temperature depends on the applied load, component design, protective coating, and operating duration.
Applications
Nickel alloy K403 / ZhS6K is used to manufacture cast components operating under high-temperature conditions, including:
- Gas turbine rotor blades.
- Turbine stator and guide vanes.
- Components of aircraft gas turbine engines.
- Industrial gas turbine parts.
- Hot-section components of power generation systems.
- Cast components exposed to prolonged mechanical and thermal loads.
Features of K403 / ZhS6K Alloy
The main feature of K403 is the combination of a heat-resistant nickel-based matrix with complex alloying. Chromium helps improve oxidation resistance, while cobalt and molybdenum contribute to the alloy’s strength characteristics. Aluminium and titanium promote the formation of the strengthening γ′ phase. Tungsten also contributes to increased strength at elevated temperatures.
The alloy has good casting properties, making it suitable for manufacturing components with complex geometries. However, its resistance to high-temperature corrosion depends on operating conditions. Protective coatings may therefore be required for prolonged service in aggressive gas environments.
Material selection should take into account the component’s intended application, operating temperature, mechanical loads, manufacturing technology, and applicable standard requirements.
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