What does Monel® mean?

Monel as a term refers to a group of metal alloys which are registered under a single trademark. Originally developed by engineers working at the International Nickel Company, the trademark now belongs to the Special Metals Corporation. Monel is also used to describe all similar alloys, even those manufactured by other companies.

The most widely used Monel metals are Alloy 400 (Monel 400, UNS N04400, 2.4360) and Alloy K500 (Monel 500, UNS N05500, 2.4375), the latter being a higher-strength alloy. Both of these alloys are widely used in marine and chemical process industries due to their excellent corrosion resistance in selected mediums. Monel is a solid-solution binary alloy, with nickel and copper mutually soluble in all proportions, making this a single-phase alloy.

When was The First Monel Alloy Created?

Monel was created in 1901 by Robert Crooks Stanley, an employee of the International Nickel Company (INCO). Recognising the importance of the discovery, Stanley named his new creation after INCOs president, Ambrose Monell – although one L was dropped, as family names were not allowed as trademarks during this time.

Stanley received the patent for Monel in 1906.

How is Monel Fabricated?

This group of nickel alloys is primarily composed of nickel (typically 52-67%) and copper with small amounts of silicon, carbon, manganese and iron. Monel alloys are fabricated using hot and cold-working, machining and welding and are resistant to corrosion by many agents, including rapidly flowing seawater plus it is resistant to acids and can withstand a fire in pure oxygen.

What is Monel Used For?

Monel is primarily used for marine applications. For example, monel is used for pumps, shafts, fasteners, heat exchangers, and fittings. However, Monel is not only used for undersea and marine applications. It is also used as part of the manufacturing of metal instruments and frames of eyeglasses.

Is Monel Better Than Stainless Steel?

Monel, generally speaking, demonstrates a superior resistance compared to stainless steel and other alloys of its type.

Is Monel More Expensive Than Stainless Steel?

Monel is usually much more expensive than stainless steel due to its strength and increased corrosion resistance.

Got More Questions? Get in Touch

If you would like to learn more about Monel alloys, please contact Langley Alloys today.

Our team of specialists will be able to help you with any questions you may have. We can talk you through the advanced properties of both Alloy 400 and Alloy K-500 in addition to making recommendations based on your application.