1. Basic Definition and Composition Characteristics
10Cr18Ni9NbCu3BN is a high-alloy austenitic heat-resistant stainless steel, a nuclear-grade specialty material. Its compositional design features:
High chromium-nickel base (Cr 17.0-19.0%, Ni 8.0-10.0%): ensures basic corrosion resistance;
Multiple strengthening:
Nb: 0.30-0.60% (carbide stabilization);
Cu: 2.80-3.50% (improves stress corrosion resistance);
B: 0.001-0.005% + N: 0.10-0.20% (synergistic grain boundary strengthening);
Low carbon control (C ≤ 0.10%): avoids sensitization risks.
Implementation Standard: Typically complies with ASTM A312/A358 or the nuclear power-specific specification RCC-M.
2. Core Performance Advantages
Resistance to Extreme Environments:
Resistant to high-temperature, high-pressure water corrosion (300°C/8MPa water condition, corrosion rate <0.01mm/year);
Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) resistance three times better than 316L steel;
Mechanical Properties:
Room temperature strength ≥620MPa, high-temperature strength ≥180MPa at 650°C;
Elongation ≥35%, impact energy ≥60J at -196°C;
Processing Characteristics:
Welding requires inert gas shielding (TIG welding is optimal);
Solution treatment temperature 1100-1150°C.
3. Typical Applications
Core Nuclear Power Equipment:
Pressurized Water Reactor Primary Circuit Auxiliary Piping;
Steam Generator Supports;
Offshore Engineering:
High-Pressure Piping for Deep-Sea Drilling Platforms;
Heat Exchange Tubing for Seawater Desalination Plants;
Special Needs:
High-Level Radioactive Waste Storage Containers;
Supercritical CO₂ Piping for Geothermal Power Plants. 4. Comparison with Similar Materials
vs. 316LN:
Copper + niobium composite reinforcement increases strength by 25%;
Boron and nitrogen synergistically enhance grain boundary resistance to radiation damage;
vs. 904L:
Lower nickel content, 40% lower cost;
Comparable pitting corrosion resistance in chloride-containing environments.
5. Procurement and Quality Control Key Points
Key Certificates:
Irradiation test report (fast neutron flux ≥ 1×10²¹n/cm²) required;
Intergranular corrosion testing (per ASTM A262 Practice E);
Testing Requirements:
100% eddy current and ultrasonic combined testing;
Ferrite content testing (≤5%);
