Nickel 200 (UNS N02200 / W.Nr. 2.4060) represents one of the most versatile commercially pure nickel alloys available today. This guide introduces an overview of Nickel 200 plate sheet, detailing its benefits, technical specifications, and primary industrial applications.
What is Nickel 200?
Nickel 200 is a commercially pure wrought nickel, containing a minimum of 99.6% nickel. It is characterized by its excellent mechanical properties and a high degree of resistance to many corrosive environments. Unlike complex alloys designed for high-temperature strength, Nickel 200 focuses on pure elemental performance.
The material is ferromagnetic and possesses relatively low vapor pressure, making it a persuasive choice for vacuum technology and electronic components. While its cousin, Nickel 201, is used for temperatures above 600°F (315°C) due to its lower carbon content, Nickel 200 remains the standard for ambient and moderate-temperature chemical applications.
Key Benefits and Material Features
The widespread adoption of Nickel 200 plate and sheet is driven by three foundational characteristics:
Exceptional Resistance to Caustics
Nickel 200 is virtually immune to corrosion by caustic alkalis, such as caustic soda (sodium hydroxide), at various temperatures and concentrations. Even in molten states, the material maintains its integrity, forming a protective oxide film that prevents further degradation.
High Thermal and Electrical Conductivity
Among nickel alloys, Nickel 200 stands out for its superior conductivity. Its electrical resistivity is approximately 9.5 microhm-cm, and its thermal conductivity is significantly higher than that of stainless steels. This makes it an ideal substrate for heat exchangers and electrical connectors.
Mechanical Ductility and Ease of Fabrication
Despite its strength, Nickel 200 is highly ductile. It can be cold-formed, drawn, and spun into complex shapes without the risk of brittle fracture. This workability reduces manufacturing lead times and allows for the fabrication of seamless tank linings and intricate electronic plates.
Mechanical Properties
Nickel 200 delivers reliable mechanical performance in both annealed and cold-worked conditions:
|
Property |
Annealed Condition |
Cold-Worked Condition |
|
Tensile Strength |
55,000 psi (380 MPa) |
85,000+ psi (585+ MPa) |
|
Yield Strength (0.2% Offset) |
20,000 psi (138 MPa) |
70,000+ psi (480+ MPa) |
|
Elongation |
40% minimum |
10% minimum |
|
Hardness (Rockwell B) |
70-85 HRB |
90+ HRB |
Key Mechanical Advantages:
High strength-to-weight ratio for structural applications
Excellent ductility for deep drawing and forming operations
Maintains toughness in cryogenic environments down to -253°C (-423°F)
Reliable performance at elevated temperatures up to 315°C (600°F)
Physical Properties
Understanding the physical characteristics of Nickel 200 is essential for proper engineering design:
|
Property |
Value |
|
Density |
8.89 g/cm³ (0.321 lb/in³) |
|
Melting Point |
1446°C (2635°F) |
|
Thermal Conductivity |
90 W/m·K (52 BTU·ft/h·ft²·°F) |
|
Electrical Resistivity |
9.6 µohm·cm |
|
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion |
13.3 µm/m·°C (20-100°C) |
|
Magnetic Permeability |
1.002 (slightly magnetic at room temperature) |
|
Specific Heat |
445 J/kg·K |
The combination of high thermal conductivity and low thermal expansion makes Nickel 200 particularly suitable for heat transfer applications and precision components requiring dimensional stability.
Primary Applications of Nickel 200 Plates and Sheets
The application of Nickel 200 is highly targeted. As a manager, I recommend this material for sectors where contamination-free processing is the highest priority.
Chemical and Petrochemical Processing The most common application is the production and handling of sodium hydroxide. Nickel 200 plates are used to fabricate storage tanks, evaporator bodies, and heating elements. Because it does not leach metallic ions into the process stream, it ensures the purity of the end product-a critical factor in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Electronics and Electrical Engineering Due to its low vapor pressure and high conductivity, Nickel 200 sheet is used for battery components, lead wires, and fuel cell electrodes. It is a staple in the manufacturing of nickel-cadmium batteries and vacuum tube components.
Food and Synthetic Fiber Production In the production of viscose rayon and the processing of fats and oils, Nickel 200 ensures that corrosive catalysts do not degrade the equipment. Its "clean" metallurgical profile prevents the discoloration of fibers and the contamination of food products.
Aerospace and Defense Nickel 200 is often utilized in rocket motor cases and specialized marine equipment where resistance to salt-water corrosion must be paired with mechanical toughness at sub-zero temperatures.
Available Plate and Sheet Specifications
Our factory supplies Nickel 200 in comprehensive dimensions to meet diverse project requirements:
|
Dimension Type |
Standard Range |
Custom Options |
|
Thickness (Sheet) |
0.5 mm to 3.0 mm |
Up to 5.0 mm available |
|
Thickness (Plate) |
3.0 mm to 50 mm |
Up to 100 mm available |
|
Width |
1000 mm to 2000 mm |
Up to 2500 mm available |
|
Length |
2000 mm to 6000 mm |
Custom lengths available |
Standard Finishes
2B Finish: Cold-rolled, annealed, pickled (standard mill finish)
No. 4 Finish: Brushed/polished for aesthetic applications
BA Finish: Bright annealed for reflective surfaces
Hot-Rolled: As-rolled for industrial applications
Tolerance Standards
All Nickel 200 products meet or exceed ASTM B162 specifications with tight dimensional tolerances ensuring consistent fabrication results.
Our factory maintains a comprehensive inventory of Nickel 200 plates and sheets in standard dimensions, with custom manufacturing capabilities to meet your specific project requirements. All materials are supplied with full traceability and certification to ensure compliance with your quality standards.
For technical consultation, pricing, or to request samples, please contact our sales team.
