Fabrication for Extreme Temperature Environments
Industrial processes in the metallurgy, power generation, and chemical sectors subject equipment to extreme thermal stress, oxidation, and creep. Standard carbon and structural steels quickly degrade under these conditions. At Openex Metal Fabrication, we specialize in processing, forming, and welding heat-resistant steels and high-temperature superalloys designed to survive continuous exposure to temperatures exceeding 1000°C (1832°F).
Fabricating high-temperature alloys requires specialized knowledge. These metals are prone to work-hardening during CNC machining and require strict heat-input controls and specialized filler metals during welding to prevent hot cracking and preserve their metallurgical integrity. Our AWS and ASME-certified welders and master machinists have decades of experience navigating these challenges on massive scales.
Common Heat-Resistant Grades We Process
We maintain a robust supply chain to source, test, and fabricate a wide variety of heat-resistant grades. All materials are fully traceable with complete Material Test Reports (MTRs).
| Material Grade | Key Characteristics | Max Operating Temp |
|---|---|---|
| 310 / 310S Stainless | High chromium & nickel. Excellent oxidation resistance. | 1150°C (2100°F) |
| 309 / 309S Stainless | High strength at elevated temps. Often used as weld filler. | 1000°C (1832°F) |
| 321 / 347 Stainless | Titanium/Niobium stabilized to prevent carbide precipitation. | 900°C (1650°F) |
| Inconel® (600, 625, 718) | Nickel-chromium superalloy. Immune to chloride stress corrosion. | 1093°C (2000°F) |
| Hastelloy® (C-276, X) | Exceptional resistance to localized corrosion and severe heat. | 1200°C (2190°F) |
Our Manufacturing Expertise with Superalloys
- 🔥 Precision Heavy Welding Strict purging, controlled interpass temperatures, and specialized GTAW/GMAW techniques to prevent weld decay.
- ⚙️ Rigid Heavy Machining Utilizing heavy-duty horizontal boring mills and low cutting speeds to combat the rapid work-hardening of nickel alloys.
- 🗜️ Plate Rolling & Forming High-capacity press braking and plate rolling adapted for the high yield strength and springback of 310S and Inconel.
- 🔍 Stringent NDT Testing In-house Radiographic (RT), Ultrasonic (UT), and Dye Penetrant (PT) testing to guarantee zero critical defects.
Common Applications & Components
Because of our massive facility size and lifting capacity (up to 250 tons), we regularly fabricate the largest high-temperature components in the industry, including:
- Industrial Furnace Components: Retorts, muffles, radiant tubes, and heavily reinforced furnace shells.
- Rotary Kilns & Dryers: Massive kiln shell sections and riding rings for the cement and mining industries.
- Energy & Power Generation: Boiler tube shields, flare stacks, gas turbine exhaust systems, and heat exchanger baffles.
- Chemical Processing: Pressure vessels, chemical reactor shells, and vacuum chambers subject to extreme thermal and chemical wear.