Cast Invar 36: Precision Alloy with Low Thermal Expansion for Demanding Applications
With over 100 years of experience, Waukesha Foundry can help you maximize the performance of Invar 36.
When precision engineering matters, you can count on Waukesha Foundry to cast even the most complex Invar 36 components. Composed of 36% nickel and 64% remainder iron, Invar 36 material delivers low thermal expansion in temperatures up to 500F. It is the ideal composite tooling for aerospace and other high-stress applications, since there is almost no dimensional change over normal atmospheric temperatures.
Contact Our ExpertsBenefits of Cast Invar 36 for High-Precision Applications
Get Dimensional Tolerance & Production Performance With a very low coefficient of thermal expansion, Invar 36 is an important material for temperature-cured, carbon fiber reinforced composite tooling, owing to its consistent expansion properties. At Waukesha Foundry, we assure compatibility between the Invar 36 material and the composite part, maintaining an appropriate cure temperature, vacuum integrity and machinability. This prevents distortion, stress and warpage, while preserving its inherent strength and delivering exceptional properties for demanding applications. With Invar 36 and Waukesha Foundry’s expertise, you get:
- Low Thermal Expansion
- Dimensional Stability
- Vacuum-Tight Casting
- Machinability & Weldability
Applications of Invar 36
Invar 36 is ideal for applications where you need to minimize dimensional changes that can happen at elevated temperatures. We’ve worked with companies across a variety of industries, including:
- Aerospace: Airframe and structural components.
- Automotive: Manufacturing equipment, including automotive panel tooling.
- General Precision Tooling: Resin transfer molds and fixtures.
Waukesha Foundry’s Expertise in Invar 36 Casting
When experience and expertise come together, you get Waukesha Foundry. Our team of metallurgists and engineers know how to use today’s latest manufacturing technologies to get the most out of a material. We combine this knowledge with our 100+ years of operation, bringing together time-tested techniques with innovative thinking. For example, our 3D scanning capabilities allow us to more accurately measure and cast parts from a high-precision alloy like Invar 36, ensuring the delivery of high-quality materials. When you work with us, you also benefit from our commitment to quality and build-to-ship scheduling.
- ISO-9001:2015 Certified
- ASME IX Certified Welders
- RoHS Compliant
- REACH Compliant
FAQs
What is Invar 36, and why is it used in precision tooling applications?
Invar 36 is a nickel-iron alloy containing 36% nickel. It is one of the preferred alloys in applications requiring dimensional accuracy. It has a lower rate of thermal expansion compared to carbon steel, allowing it to hold its form better in high-heat situations.
What industries commonly use Invar material for high-precision components?
It is used in precision instruments and equipment, including aerospace parts and industrial equipment, as well as various industrial applications.
How does the low thermal expansion of Invar 36 benefit composite tooling?
It allows the tooling to maintain nearly constant dimensions over a wide range of temperatures, ensuring consistent performance across diverse temperature ranges.
What sizes and dimensions can Waukesha Foundry produce for Cast Invar 36 components?
We evaluate our customers’ needs on a case-by-case basis.
How does Invar 36 compare to other alloys in terms of thermal expansion and stability?
It offers a very low coefficient of thermal expansion, about one-tenth that of carbon steel.
Is Invar 36 suitable for high-temperature environments?
Yes, it’s low thermal expansion makes it ideal for high-temperature environments up to 500F.
Can Invar 36 material be customized to meet specific dimensional or thermal requirements?
We often work with our customers to customize an alloy to their needs.
What quality certifications does Waukesha Foundry hold for Invar 36 casting?
In addition to being ISO 9001:2015 certified, our degreed manufacturing and metallurgical engineers provide expertise and quality control. We also employ ASME IX certified welders.
What is the machinability and weldability of Invar 36 like compared to other alloys?
The machinability and weldability of Invar 36 is similar to austenitic stainless steel.
How does Waukesha Foundry ensure the vacuum integrity and soundness of Cast Invar 36 parts?
We’re the top producer of vacuum-tight cast Invar 36 for tooling. We use NDT techniques to confirm that our invar parts will be vacuum tight.
See what we can do for you.
Customer satisfaction is important to us. We work closely with our customers to engineer the right process for their application. To find out what Waukesha Foundry can do for you, contact us today.