Also known as Invar36, Invar alloy has a unique combination of properties from pure nickel and pure iron, while also having a variety of new properties unique to the alloy.
Thermal Expansion Capabilities
Invar has a Coefficient of Thermal Expansion of almost zero. This means that Invar36 does not expand nor contract when subjected to extreme temperatures. Very few other metals and metal alloys contain a near 0 CTE. For example, Invar’s CTE is one-tenth of carbon steel, meaning it expands exponentially less at higher temperatures. This makes Invar a highly practical choice for high precision machine parts that may also be subject to extreme thermal conditions.
Cryogenic Stability
Invar’s low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion its ability to withstand temperatures of up to 500°F without expanding, but what may be more impressive is that the metal can also reach cryogenic temperatures (<-130°F) with little to no consequence. This allows for Invar to be a common alloy when working with aerospace and defense technology that may be subject to the freezing temperatures outside our atmosphere.