Alloy 36
Controlled Expansion Alloy
Known for its exceptionally low coefficient of thermal expansion, Alloy 36 maintains consistent size and shape across a broad temperature range, making it the preferred material for precision engineering and thermal stability applications.
Manufactured to internationally recognised standards, including ASTM F1684 and UNS K93603, Alloy 36 is widely specified in industries where even minimal thermal movement can affect performance, alignment, or structural accuracy. Its controlled expansion properties make Alloy 36 ideal for applications that require reliable dimensional consistency across changing temperatures.
Heat Treatment
Alloy 36 is generally supplied in the fully annealed condition, in accordance with ASTM F1684, ensuring optimum dimensional stability and machinability. Alloy 36 can also be supplied unannealed upon request for applications requiring additional fabrication or custom heat treatment.
Machining
When machining Alloy 36, it is important to account for the material's tendency to work harden. Compared with conventional stainless steels, Alloy 36 can feel softer and more “gummy” during cutting operations due to its nickel-iron composition. To achieve the best machining performance with ASTM F1684 and UNS K93603 materials, low cutting speeds, rigid setups, sharp tooling, and effective coolant application are strongly recommended.
Stock Availability
We stock Alloy 36 bars in diameters from 12.7mm to 63.5mm.
New Testing laboratory Testing laboratory
In 2024, our UKAS Materials Testing Laboratory relocated to a new, expanded, dedicated site in Biggleswade.
Discover
- ASTM F1684
- UNS K93603
- 1.3912
- Laser guide rails
- Radio telescopes
- Aerospace tooling
- Metrology equipment
- Very low coefficient of thermal expansion
- Long term material stability
- Reasonable strength and toughness
- Ideal for the manufacture of metallic products requiring tight dimensional consistency up to 200°C
