If you’ve ever come across high-performance nickel alloys at a job site or in industrial scrap, chances are you’ve seen Inconel 625 or Inconel 718. These are two of the most common (and valuable) Inconel grades—but they’re not interchangeable, especially when it comes to scrap value.
Understanding the difference can help you avoid misgrading material and ensure you get paid correctly.
Key Takeaways
- Inconel 625 = corrosion-resistant, softer, no heat treatment required
- Inconel 718 = heat-treated, stronger, used in high-stress environments
- They look similar but perform differently, which impacts scrap value
- 718 is often more valuable, but only if properly identified
- Always confirm the grade before selling—guessing can cost you money
What Is Inconel Scrap?
Inconel is a family of nickel-based superalloys designed to withstand:
- Extreme heat
- Corrosion
- Pressure and mechanical stress
These alloys are commonly found in:
- Aerospace components
- Turbines
- Marine environments
- Chemical processing equipment
For a broader breakdown of how this material is handled, check out Inconel Scrap Recycling
What Is Inconel 625?
Inconel 625 is a nickel-chromium alloy with added molybdenum and niobium, designed primarily for corrosion resistance1. Key properties include:
- Excellent resistance to saltwater and chemicals
- High strength without heat treatment
- Easier to weld and fabricate
- Non-magnetic in most conditions
Common Applications:
- Marine hardware
- Chemical processing equipment
- Exhaust systems
- Offshore oil and gas components
What Is Inconel 718?
Inconel 718 is a nickel-based alloy that includes niobium, iron, and other elements, designed for extreme strength and high-temperature performance2. Key properties are:
- Can be heat-treated for added strength
- Maintains integrity under extreme stress
- Stronger than 625
- Slightly magnetic after processing (in some cases)
Common Applications:
- Jet engine parts
- Turbine blades and discs
- Aerospace fasteners
- High-performance industrial components
What’s the Difference Between Inconel 625 and 718?
| Feature | Inconel 625 | Inconel 718 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Strength | Corrosion resistance | Mechanical strength |
| Heat Treatment | Not required | Required for strength |
| Common Use | Marine / chemical | Marine/chemical |
| Workability | Easier to weld | Harder, more rigid |
| Scrap Identification | Trickier visually | Often tied to aerospace parts |
Why Does Grade Confirmation Matter?
Here’s the problem for machine shops, mills, and other industrial recyclers: 625 and 718 often look nearly identical. So, without proper identification, you risk losing value by selling at a single generic price.
How to Confirm the Grade:
- Mill stamps or markings (best-case scenario)
- Material test reports (MTRs)
- XRF analyzer testing at the yard
- Knowledge of where the material came from
How Does Each Grade Impact Scrap Value?
Both alloys are valuable due to their high nickel content, but:
- Inconel 718 often commands higher pricing due to:
- More complex alloy composition
- Higher demand in aerospace recycling streams
- Inconel 625 still holds strong value, especially in:
- Marine and industrial scrap markets
However, pricing can vary based on:
- Cleanliness of the material
- Quantity
- Market demand
- Verified grade
For current trends and pricing insights, visit Inconel Scrap Value.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Inconel 625 and 718 may look similar, but knowing the difference can directly impact your payout.
If you’re unsure what you have, RRCarbide can help. As buyers of both 625 and 718, we make it easy to:
- Identify your material
- Get accurate, grade-based pricing
- Sell efficiently with minimal hassle
When it comes to high-value alloys, a quick confirmation can make all the difference.