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Invar

Nickel alloy with a very low coefficient of thermal expansion.

Invar in CNC Machining

Invar is a nickel-iron alloy known for its exceptionally low coefficient of thermal expansion. Its ability to maintain dimensional stability across temperature changes makes it particularly valuable for precision components where even small dimensional changes can affect performance.

Invar is commonly CNC machined for aerospace, optics, electronics, metrology, tooling, and precision engineering applications. It can maintain tight dimensional requirements in environments where temperature fluctuations would cause conventional metals to expand or contract significantly.

Although Invar offers excellent dimensional stability, its relatively low thermal conductivity and work-hardening characteristics require appropriate machining techniques. Proper tooling, cutting parameters, workholding, and cooling can help achieve accurate and consistent results.

Available Invar at Elite Mold Tech:

Price

$$$

Lead Time:

< 10 days

Wall Thickness:

0.75 mm

Tolerances:

±0.125mm (±0.005″)

Max Part Size:

200 x 80 x 100 cm

Available Grades:

Invar 36
Invar 36
Invar 36 is a nickel-iron alloy containing approximately 36% nickel and is recognized for its extremely low thermal expansion near room temperature. It provides excellent dimensional stability and is commonly used for precision components, aerospace tooling, optical equipment, and measurement systems.
Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa) 240
Fatigue Strength (MPa) 205
Elongation at Break (%) 40
Hardness (Brinell) 160
Density (g/cm³) 8.05

Surface Finishing Options for Invar

CNC machined Invar parts can undergo various surface finishing processes to improve appearance, surface quality, corrosion resistance, and functional performance.
  • As Machined
  • Polishing
  • Electropolishing
  • Passivation
  • Electroless Nickel Plating
  • Nickel Plating
  • Sand Blasting
  • Tumbling
  • Brushed Finish
  • Grinding

Pros and Cons of Invar CNC Machining

Invar machining provides exceptional dimensional stability and predictable performance under changing temperatures, making it valuable for precision applications. However, its machining characteristics require careful process control.
  • Extremely Low Thermal Expansion: Invar undergoes very little dimensional change with temperature variations, making it ideal for precision applications.
  • Excellent Dimensional Stability: Components can maintain accurate dimensions when exposed to controlled temperature changes.
  • Good Mechanical Strength: Invar provides sufficient strength for many precision tooling and engineering applications.
  • Reliable Precision: Its low thermal expansion helps maintain dimensional accuracy in sensitive assemblies.
  • Good Corrosion Resistance: Invar provides reasonable resistance to atmospheric corrosion and can be further protected with suitable surface treatments.
  • Difficult Machinability: Invar can work harden during machining, increasing cutting forces and tool wear.
  • Low Thermal Conductivity: Heat can remain concentrated near the cutting zone, making effective heat management important.
  • Higher Material Cost: Invar is generally more expensive than common steels due to its specialized nickel-iron composition.
  • Limited General-Purpose Use: Its main advantages are related to dimensional stability, making it unnecessary for applications that do not require low thermal expansion.
Description
Application
CNC machining produces parts with excellent mechanical properties, accuracy and repeatability from metal and plastic. 3-axis & 5-axis CNC milling available.
Strengths
Excellent mechanical properties,High accuracy & repeatabillity
Weaknesses
Greater geometry restrictions than 3D printing
Properties
Lead Time
< 10 days
Wall Thickness
0.75 mm
Tolerances
±0.125mm (±0.005″)
Max part size
200 x 80 x 100 cm

Property Value Mechanical Properties Ultimate tensile strength 450 – 480 MPa Yield

FAQs

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