Nickel Alloy GH3128丨GH128
Nickel Alloy GH3128, also known as GH128, is a solid-solution strengthened Ni-Cr-based wrought superalloy designed for excellent high-temperature strength, oxidation resistance, creep resistance, good plasticity and good fabrication performance. Strengthened mainly by tungsten and molybdenum, GH3128 is widely used for aero engine combustor flame tubes, afterburner casings, regulating plates, gas turbine combustor parts and other high-temperature components operating up to approximately 950°C.
Nickel Alloy GH3128丨GH128
Nickel Alloy GH3128 is a Ni-Cr-based solid-solution strengthened wrought superalloy. It is also commonly known as GH128 in Chinese superalloy designation systems. Unlike precipitation-hardening nickel alloys such as GH4738 or GH4698, GH3128 is primarily strengthened by high levels of tungsten and molybdenum in solid solution, with boron, cerium and zirconium additions used to improve grain boundary stability and high-temperature performance.
The alloy provides a strong combination of high-temperature strength, oxidation resistance, creep resistance, good plasticity, stamping performance and weldability. Because of this balance, GH3128 is especially suitable for sheet, plate and formed structures used in combustion systems, hot gas paths and other components exposed to high-temperature oxidizing atmospheres.
GH3128 is widely used in aero engine combustor flame tubes, afterburner casings, regulating plates, gas turbine combustion chamber components, thermal structural parts and high-temperature sheet metal components. It is selected when engineers need a nickel-based alloy with better high-temperature oxidation resistance and structural stability than many stainless steels, while maintaining good fabrication performance for formed and welded parts.
Compared with precipitation-hardened nickel alloys such as GH4738 and GH4698, GH3128 offers better forming and welding characteristics but lower age-hardened strength. Compared with Alloy 625, GH3128 is more focused on high-temperature oxidation and structural service, while Alloy 625 is usually selected for severe wet corrosion resistance and weld overlay applications.
GH3128 At a Glance
| Key Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Nickel Alloy GH3128 / GH128 |
| UNS | No direct universal UNS equivalent commonly used |
| EN / W.Nr. | No direct universal EN / W.Nr. equivalent commonly used |
| Material Type | Ni-Cr-Based Solid-Solution Strengthened Wrought Superalloy |
| Density | Approx. 8.81 g/cm³ |
| PREN | Not typically used for nickel-based superalloys |
| Main Advantage | High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance, Creep Strength, Good Plasticity and Weldability |
| Typical Service Temperature | Long-term service up to approximately 950°C depending on stress, exposure time and component design |
| Main Industries | Aerospace Engines, Gas Turbines, Power Generation, High-Temperature Fabrication, Industrial Furnaces |
| Comparable Grades | GH3044, GH3536, GH3030, Alloy 625, Alloy 600, Haynes 230, Inconel 601 |
Features
- Ni-Cr-based solid-solution strengthened wrought superalloy for high-temperature service.
- High tungsten and molybdenum content provides strong solid-solution strengthening.
- Excellent oxidation resistance in hot gas and combustion environments.
- Good creep strength and structural stability at elevated temperatures.
- Good plasticity, stamping performance and forming capability for sheet metal components.
- Good weldability for combustor parts, casings and high-temperature fabricated structures.
- Suitable for long-term service up to approximately 950°C under appropriate design conditions.
- Microalloying with boron, cerium and zirconium supports grain boundary stability.
- Widely used in aero engine combustors, afterburner casings and gas turbine hot-section components.
- Available in sheet, plate, strip, bar, wire, forgings and custom machined parts.
Chemical Composition
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Nickel (Ni) | Balance |
| Chromium (Cr) | 19.00–22.00 |
| Tungsten (W) | 7.50–7.90 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 7.50–7.90 |
| Titanium (Ti) | 0.40–0.80 |
| Aluminum (Al) | 0.40–0.80 |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 2.00 |
| Carbon (C) | ≤ 0.05 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.80 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 0.50 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.013 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.013 |
| Boron (B) | ≤ 0.005 |
| Cerium (Ce) | ≤ 0.050 |
| Zirconium (Zr) | ≤ 0.060 |
Physical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Density | Approx. 8.81 g/cm³ / 0.318 lb/in³ |
| Melting Range | Approx. 1340–1370°C / 2444–2498°F |
| Electrical Resistivity | Approx. 1.20–1.35 μΩ·m |
| Thermal Conductivity | Approx. 10–13 W/m·K at room temperature |
| Specific Heat Capacity | Approx. 430–470 J/kg·K |
| Modulus of Elasticity | Approx. 200–215 GPa / 29.0–31.2 × 10⁶ psi |
Mechanical Properties
Mechanical properties of Nickel Alloy GH3128 depend on product form, heat treatment, section thickness, manufacturing route and testing temperature. The following values are typical reference values for solution-treated material. Final acceptance values should be confirmed according to the applicable standard, drawing or customer specification.
| Condition | Tensile Strength | Yield Strength | Elongation | Hardness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solution Treated, Room Temperature | Approx. ≥ 735 MPa / ≥ 107 ksi | Approx. ≥ 340 MPa / ≥ 49 ksi | Approx. ≥ 35–40% | Approx. ≤ 241 HB typical reference |
| Sheet / Plate, Solution Treated | Specified by product standard and thickness | Specified by product standard and thickness | Good plasticity for forming and fabrication | Controlled by heat treatment and inspection plan |
| Elevated Temperature Service | Good strength retention up to high-temperature service range | Application-dependent | Application-dependent | Condition-dependent |
Corrosion Resistance
Nickel Alloy GH3128 provides good oxidation resistance and general corrosion resistance in high-temperature gas, combustion gas and atmospheric environments. Its high chromium content helps form a protective oxide film, while nickel provides a stable high-temperature matrix. This makes GH3128 suitable for combustor parts, afterburner casings, regulating plates and other hot gas path components.
For pitting and crevice corrosion, GH3128 is not normally selected as a primary seawater or chloride wet-corrosion alloy. Although it has a nickel-chromium base, severe chloride solutions, stagnant seawater, crevice conditions and salt deposits can require more specialized materials such as Alloy 625, Alloy 825, Alloy C-276, Alloy C-22 or super duplex stainless steel.
Stress corrosion cracking resistance depends on temperature, stress level, surface condition, environment and manufacturing route. GH3128 is primarily chosen for high-temperature oxidation and structural service rather than strong wet-corrosion resistance. Components operating under high stress in corrosive media should be reviewed carefully.
In acid environments, GH3128 may provide useful resistance in selected oxidizing or mildly corrosive conditions, but it is not intended as a universal acid-resistant alloy. For strong reducing acids, hot sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid or mixed acid-chloride service, dedicated corrosion-resistant nickel alloys should be considered.
High Temperature Performance
High-temperature performance is the key reason for selecting Nickel Alloy GH3128. The alloy is designed to maintain good strength, oxidation resistance and structural stability in high-temperature oxidizing atmospheres, especially in aerospace and gas turbine combustion systems.
GH3128 is commonly used for long-term service up to approximately 950°C, depending on stress level, exposure time, component geometry and operating atmosphere. It is especially suitable for formed and welded hot-section structures such as flame tubes, afterburner casings, regulator plates and combustion chamber parts.
The alloy’s high tungsten and molybdenum content provides strong solid-solution strengthening, helping it maintain useful load-bearing capability at elevated temperatures. Chromium supports oxidation resistance, while boron, cerium and zirconium help improve grain boundary behavior.
GH3128 should not be treated as a universal high-temperature alloy for all applications. For applications requiring maximum creep strength under heavy load, age-hardenable alloys such as GH4738, GH4698, Alloy 718 or Waspaloy-type materials may be more suitable. For applications dominated by severe wet corrosion, Alloy 625, Alloy C-276 or Alloy C-22 may be more appropriate.
Available Forms
- Sheet
- Plate
- Strip
- Foil
- Round bar
- Flat bar
- Rod
- Wire
- Seamless tube
- Welded tube
- Forgings
- Forged rings
- Billets
- Blocks
- Combustor component blanks
- Flame tube blanks
- Precision machined parts
- Custom formed and welded components
Applications of GH3128
Aerospace Engines
- Combustor flame tubes
- Afterburner casings
- Regulating plates
- Hot gas path components
- High-temperature sheet metal structures
Gas Turbines
- Combustion chamber components
- Thermal structural parts
- Hot-section casings
- Gas flow control parts
- Oxidation-resistant formed parts
Power Generation
- Industrial turbine combustor parts
- Heat-resistant liners
- High-temperature ducting components
- Combustion system accessories
- Thermal protection components
Industrial Furnaces
- Heat shields
- Furnace liners
- High-temperature baffles
- Oxidation-resistant plates
- Thermal support structures
High-Temperature Fabrication
- Formed sheet components
- Welded assemblies
- Expansion sections
- Thermal insulation support parts
- Custom hot gas components
Defense & High-Performance Engineering
- Propulsion system components
- Thermal mechanical assemblies
- High-temperature structural parts
- Special formed components
- Custom superalloy fabricated parts
GH3128 vs GH3044 vs Alloy 625 vs Alloy 600
| Grade | Main Advantage | Strength | High Temperature Performance | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GH3128 / GH128 | Solid-solution strengthened Ni-Cr alloy with high W and Mo for oxidation resistance and high-temperature strength | Medium to High | Excellent up to approx. 950°C depending on service condition | Combustor flame tubes, afterburner casings, regulating plates and hot gas path parts |
| GH3044 | Ni-Cr-W-Mo solid-solution superalloy with good oxidation resistance and thermal strength | Medium to High | Excellent for combustion chamber and hot-section parts | Aero engine combustion chambers, flame tubes and high-temperature sheet parts |
| Alloy 625 / UNS N06625 | Excellent wet corrosion resistance and good weldability without age hardening | Medium to High | Good oxidation resistance, lower structural strength than age-hardened superalloys | Chemical processing, seawater, offshore, exhaust systems and weld overlays |
| Alloy 600 / UNS N06600 | Good oxidation resistance and general high-temperature corrosion resistance | Medium | Good for furnace and heat-treating environments | Furnace components, heat-treating baskets, retorts and chemical processing parts |
GH3128 vs GH4738
| Item | Nickel Alloy GH3128 | Nickel Alloy GH4738 |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | Solid-solution strengthened Ni-Cr superalloy | Age-hardenable nickel-based superalloy |
| Strengthening Mechanism | Solid solution strengthening by W and Mo with grain boundary strengthening | Gamma prime precipitation hardening by Al and Ti |
| Formability | Good for sheet, plate, stamping and welding | More demanding fabrication due to high strength and aging response |
| High-Temperature Strength | Good for formed hot-section structures | Higher strength for heavily loaded rotating components |
| Typical Use | Combustor flame tubes, afterburner casings and regulating plates | Turbine discs, forged rings, shafts and high-temperature fasteners |
Welding & Fabrication
Nickel Alloy GH3128 has good fabrication performance compared with many high-strength precipitation-hardened nickel alloys. It is commonly used for sheet, plate, formed components and welded high-temperature structures.
GTAW is suitable for precision welding, thin sections, aerospace hot-section parts and components where heat input control is important. GMAW may be used for production welding of suitable sections when shielding gas, filler material and heat input are properly controlled. SMAW may be used for selected repair or thicker-section fabrication, but it is less common for precision aerospace sheet components.
Post-weld heat treatment is not always required in the same way as precipitation-hardening superalloys, because GH3128 is primarily solid-solution strengthened. However, stress relief, solution treatment or controlled thermal processing may be required depending on component design, forming history, welding procedure and service requirement.
Forming and stamping are important advantages of GH3128. The alloy can be processed into combustion chamber parts, liners, casings and other complex sheet metal structures. During machining, rigid tooling, sharp cutting tools, controlled speeds and adequate coolant are recommended due to the alloy’s nickel base and work-hardening tendency.
Standards & Equivalent Grades
| Category | Designation / Standard |
|---|---|
| Chinese Grade | GH3128 / GH128 |
| Material Type | Ni-Cr-Based Solid-Solution Strengthened Wrought Superalloy |
| UNS | No direct universal UNS equivalent commonly used |
| EN / W.Nr. | No direct universal EN / W.Nr. equivalent commonly used |
| GB | GB/T 14992, GB/T 14995 and related Chinese superalloy specifications may apply |
| HB | HB/Z 140 and aerospace material process requirements may apply |
| GJB | Project-specific military or aerospace material requirements may apply |
| AMS | No direct universal AMS equivalent; specification review required |
| ASTM | No direct universal ASTM equivalent; customer or project specification may apply |
| ASME | Project-specific ASME requirements may apply for pressure or high-temperature equipment |
| ISO | Equivalent ISO or customer material specifications may apply |
| NACE | Not a default NACE sour-service grade; suitability requires project-specific review |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nickel Alloy GH3128?
Nickel Alloy GH3128 is a Ni-Cr-based solid-solution strengthened wrought superalloy designed for high-temperature oxidation resistance, creep strength, good plasticity and weldability.
Is GH3128 the same as GH128?
Yes. GH3128 is also commonly known as GH128 in Chinese superalloy designation systems. Specific requirements should always be confirmed according to the applicable standard or customer drawing.
What is GH3128 used for?
GH3128 is used for aero engine combustor flame tubes, afterburner casings, regulating plates, gas turbine combustor parts, hot gas path components and high-temperature formed structures.
What is the main advantage of GH3128?
The main advantage of GH3128 is its combination of high-temperature oxidation resistance, creep strength, good plasticity, stamping performance and weldability for hot-section fabricated components.
What is the strengthening mechanism of GH3128?
GH3128 is mainly strengthened by solid solution strengthening from tungsten and molybdenum. Boron, cerium and zirconium additions help improve grain boundary behavior and high-temperature stability.
What temperature can GH3128 withstand?
GH3128 is commonly used for long-term high-temperature service up to approximately 950°C, depending on stress level, exposure time, component design and operating atmosphere.
Is GH3128 corrosion resistant?
GH3128 provides good oxidation and general corrosion resistance in high-temperature gas and atmospheric environments. It is not normally selected as the first choice for severe seawater, chloride or strong acid wet-corrosion service.
Can GH3128 be welded?
Yes. GH3128 has good weldability and can be welded using controlled procedures such as GTAW, GMAW and selected SMAW processes. Welding procedures should be qualified for critical aerospace or high-temperature components.
Does GH3128 require heat treatment?
GH3128 is typically supplied in a solution-treated condition. Additional thermal processing may be required depending on product form, forming history, welding procedure and service requirement.
What is the difference between GH3128 and GH4738?
GH3128 is a solid-solution strengthened alloy commonly used for formed and welded hot-section structures, while GH4738 is an age-hardenable nickel-based superalloy used for highly loaded turbine discs, rings, shafts and fasteners.
What is the difference between GH3128 and Alloy 625?
GH3128 is mainly selected for high-temperature oxidation resistance and hot-section structural components. Alloy 625 is mainly selected for severe corrosion resistance, weldability and seawater or chemical processing environments.
Is GH3128 suitable for aero engine combustor parts?
Yes. GH3128 is widely used for aero engine combustor flame tubes, afterburner casings and regulating plates because of its high-temperature oxidation resistance, formability and weldability.
What standards apply to GH3128?
Commonly referenced Chinese standards include GB/T 14992, GB/T 14995 and related aerospace or project-specific material specifications. Final requirements depend on product form, heat treatment and customer drawing.
What forms of GH3128 are available?
GH3128 is available in sheet, plate, strip, foil, round bar, flat bar, rod, wire, seamless tube, welded tube, forgings, forged rings, billets, combustor component blanks and custom machined parts.
Why Choose J&A Alloy
Global Material Solutions
J&A Alloy supplies nickel alloys, high-temperature alloys, stainless steels, precipitation-hardening stainless steels, duplex stainless steels, titanium alloys and corrosion-resistant alloys for demanding industrial applications. For Nickel Alloy GH3128, we support sheet, plate, strip, bar, wire, tube, forgings, billets and custom processed components according to project requirements.
Strict Quality Assurance
J&A Alloy provides strict quality control for chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensional tolerance, heat treatment condition and surface quality. Available inspection and documentation services include PMI, chemical analysis, mechanical testing, hardness testing, ultrasonic testing, grain size inspection, dimensional inspection and EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 certification when required.
International Standards
Materials can be supplied according to GB, HB, GJB, ASTM, ASME, EN, ISO and customer-specific specifications. For Nickel Alloy GH3128, we support specification review, equivalent grade comparison and heat treatment condition confirmation based on product form and end-use requirements.
Value-added Services
J&A Alloy offers cutting, forming support, welding support, CNC machining, heat treatment coordination, turning, milling, grinding, polishing, custom fabrication and export packaging. We help customers reduce processing time, control material waste and receive ready-to-use or semi-finished nickel alloy components for manufacturing.
Worldwide Supply
J&A Alloy serves customers in aerospace, gas turbines, power generation, industrial furnaces, chemical processing, marine engineering and high-performance mechanical equipment markets. With experience in international logistics and export documentation, we support global buyers with reliable material supply and responsive technical communication.
