Comparing Hastelloy C22 and Hastelloy C276 in Industrial Use

This comprehensive comparison will explore the differences between Hastelloy C22 and C276, their chemical compositions, mechanical and physical properties, applications, and product forms including pipe fittings, round bars, and flanges.

In high-performance industrial environments, where resistance to corrosion, extreme temperature, and aggressive chemicals is critical—Hastelloy alloys are among the most trusted materials. Two of the most prominent grades in this category are Hastelloy C22 and Hastelloy C276. While both are part of the nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloy family, they are tailored for different use cases and chemical resistances.

What Is Hastelloy?

Hastelloy is a registered trademark for a family of corrosion-resistant metal alloys primarily made from nickel, with varying amounts of molybdenum, chromium, iron, and cobalt. These alloys are designed to withstand oxidizing and reducing environments, making them ideal for:

Chemical Processing

2 Chemical Processing
Hastelloy is widely used in chemical plants due to its remarkable resistance to harsh substances like hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and chlorine compounds. Equipment such as reactors, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels benefits from its durability, helping manufacturers maintain efficiency and safety even under continuous exposure to corrosive chemicals.

Power Generation

In the energy sector, Hastelloy components are exposed to high temperatures and pressures, especially in nuclear and fossil fuel plants. Its superior thermal stability and resistance to stress corrosion cracking make it ideal for turbines, boiler systems, and heat exchangers, helping ensure uninterrupted performance over extended lifespans.

Marine Engineering

3 Marine Engineering
Marine environments pose a serious threat of corrosion due to constant contact with seawater and salty air. Hastelloy stands up to these challenges by offering excellent resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion. It’s commonly used in offshore platforms, seawater piping, and ship components where long-term durability is essential.

Pollution Control

Environmental systems like flue gas scrubbers and waste treatment tanks depend on materials that can handle corrosive gases and acidic byproducts. Hastelloy’s resilience in such chemically aggressive environments makes it a go-to material for equipment that manages emissions and supports sustainability efforts in industrial operations.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceutical manufacturing requires high standards of cleanliness and material integrity. Hastelloy is ideal for use in drug production equipment, cleanroom walls, and piping systems due to its non-reactive nature and ability to maintain purity. It helps ensure compliance with regulatory standards while preserving product quality and safety.

Hastelloy C22 vs. C276: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature

Hastelloy C22

Hastelloy C276

Primary Use

Superior resistance to oxidizing acids and media

Excellent resistance to reducing environments

UNS Number

N06022

N10276

Chromium Content

~22%

~15.5%

Molybdenum Content

~13%

~16%

Weldability

Good, but requires care

Excellent

Cost

Slightly higher

Slightly lower

Corrosion Resistance

Higher resistance to oxidizers (e.g., nitric acid)

Better in reducing agents (e.g., hydrochloric acid)

Hastelloy C22 Chemical Composition

Element

% Composition

Nickel (Ni)

Balance

Chromium (Cr)

20.0–22.5

Molybdenum (Mo)

12.5–14.5

Iron (Fe)

2.0–6.0

Tungsten (W)

2.5–3.5

Cobalt (Co)

≤ 2.5

Carbon (C)

≤ 0.015

Manganese (Mn)

≤ 0.5

 

Hastelloy C276 Chemical Composition

Element

% Composition

Nickel (Ni)

Balance

Molybdenum (Mo)

15.0–17.0

Chromium (Cr)

14.5–16.5

Iron (Fe)

4.0–7.0

Tungsten (W)

3.0–4.5

Carbon (C)

≤ 0.01

Silicon (Si)

≤ 0.08

Manganese (Mn)

≤ 1.0

 

Mechanical Properties Comparison

Property

Hastelloy C22

Hastelloy C276

Tensile Strength (MPa)

~690

~690

Yield Strength (MPa)

~310

~283

Elongation (%)

~45

~40

Hardness (Rockwell B)

~95

~92

Density (g/cm³)

8.69

8.89

Melting Point (°C)

1399–1433

1325–1370

 

Applications and Industrial Uses

Industry

C22 Applications

C276 Applications

Chemical Processing

Acid scrubbers, heat exchangers, pickling tanks

Reactors, digesters, storage tanks

Oil & Gas

Sour gas environments, downhole tools

Manifolds, risers, flare stacks

Pharmaceutical

Pollution control, sterilization tanks

Pharmaceutical mixers, chemical handling pipes

Water Treatment

Chlorine dioxide systems, brine tanks

Wastewater evaporation, filtration systems

Pulp & Paper

Bleach plants, oxidation systems

Pulp digesters, paper-making acids

Product Forms Comparison

Form

Hastelloy C22

Hastelloy C276

Round Bar

ASTM B574

ASTM B574

Pipe Fittings

ASTM B366

ASTM B366

Flanges

ASTM B564

ASTM B564

Plates & Sheets

ASTM B575

ASTM B575

 

Availability from Alloy Steel Manufacturers in India

India is a leading exporter and manufacturer of nickel-based alloys including Hastelloy C22 and C276. Trusted alloy steel suppliers in India typically offer:

  • Full product range (round bars, flanges, pipe fittings)

  • Compliance with ASTM, NACE, and ISO standards

  • Third-party inspection and MTC (Material Test Certificates)

  • Quick turnaround and global shipping

 

 

Final Thoughts: Which Alloy Should You Choose?

Choosing between Hastelloy C22 and C276 depends on your specific operational needs:

Choose Hastelloy C22 if:

  • You work in environments with oxidizing chemicals
  • You need enhanced corrosion protection in acidic media
  • You’re building pollution control systems

Choose Hastelloy C276 if:

  • Your system handles reducing chemicals like hydrochloric acid
  • You prioritize weldability and mechanical stability
  • You’re sourcing material for legacy or standard designs

FAQ

C22 offers better resistance to oxidizing acids and media like nitric acid, while C276 excels in reducing environments like hydrochloric and sulfuric acid. Choose based on your operating environment.

In many cases, yes. C22 is a newer alloy with enhanced resistance. However, C276 remains the industry standard for some high-heat reducing processes.

Both use ASTM B574 for round bars, B575 for sheets and plates, B564 for flanges, and B366 for pipe fittings.

Yes. C276 generally offers superior weldability with fewer concerns about corrosion in the heat-affected zone.

C22 is typically 5–10% more expensive due to its newer composition and higher performance in oxidizing environments.

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