Summary
Both are heat-resisting nickel-chromium-iron alloys and both come out of furnace and heat-treatment shops, often in the same scrap bin. Inconel 601 adds aluminium, which forms a protective oxide layer at high temperature.
The higher chromium and iron of 601 show clearly on any handheld XRF. Only the aluminium needs a light-element method, and it rarely decides the call. See Inconel 600 scrap and Inconel 601 scrap.
Side by Side
| Inconel 600 | Inconel 601 | |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium | About 15.5% | About 23% |
| Iron | About 8% | About 14% |
| Aluminium | None | About 1.4% (needs OES or light-element XRF) |
| Typical service | Furnace muffles, caustic evaporators, food equipment | Radiant tubes, furnace baskets, heater parts |
| Common scrap forms | Pipe, plate, sheet | Plate, sheet, fabricated furnace parts |
Composition Compared
Nominal compositions compared element by element. Change either grade to compare others.
On the XRF
Switch the grade to see how the fingerprint changes. See how XRF sorts nickel alloys.
FAQ
What is the main difference between Inconel 600 and Inconel 601?
Inconel 600 is about 15.5% chromium and 8% iron. Inconel 601 has about 23% chromium, 14% iron and 1.4% aluminium for oxidation resistance at furnace temperatures.
Can Inconel 600 and Inconel 601 scrap be mixed?
No. Keep them separate. A melter buying either one needs its chemistry to stay within the grade’s limits, and mixing can mean a re-sort or a different valuation.