ASTM B160/B160M is the standard specification by ASTM International covering nickel rod and bar for general corrosion-resistant and high-temperature applications. The specification includes three UNS nickel alloys: N02200 (pure nickel), N02201 (low-carbon nickel), and N02211 (manganese-strengthened nickel). The latest edition is B160/B160M-24 (April 2024). 

Zhengzhou Huitong (HT Pipe) supplies ASTM B160 / SB-160 compliant nickel rod and bar in all standard UNS alloys (N02200, N02201, N02211) with full Mill Test Certificates (MTC) per EN 10204 3.1, complete chemical composition reports, and full traceability. Available in hot-worked, cold-worked, and annealed conditions with multiple cross-sections (round, hexagonal, square, rectangular bar).

1. Standard Scope & Designation

ASTM B160/B160M covers nickel rod and bar in three UNS designations. The standard applies to round, hexagonal, square, and rectangular bar in hot-worked, cold-worked, or annealed conditions. Two specification systems are provided: B160 (Inch-Pound) and B160M (SI/Metric).

2. UNS Alloys Covered by ASTM B160

ASTM B160 covers 3 UNS nickel alloys: standard pure nickel (N02200), low-carbon nickel (N02201), and manganese-strengthened nickel (N02211). Each alloy has distinct characteristics suited for different service conditions.

3. Chemical Composition Requirements (Table 1)

Values are maximum unless shown as a range. Nickel shall be determined by the difference between the sum of all elements determined and 100%. When agreed upon, nickel content may be determined by difference.

4. Mechanical Property Requirements (Tables 2-3)

Mechanical properties vary by alloy, condition, product shape, and size. Values are minimum requirements. Cold-worked round bar achieves highest tensile strength; hot-worked bar offers best elongation.

5. Material Conditions & Surface Finishes

ASTM B160 specifies three material conditions. Surface finish options per Appendix X1 should be specified at time of order. Forging quality may be supplied when intended for subsequent forging.

6. Dimensional Tolerances

Dimensional tolerances per ASTM B160 Tables. Cold-worked tolerances are tighter than hot-worked. Straightness requirements vary by condition. For special tolerances, specify in purchase order.

7. Testing & Inspection Requirements

8. Product Forms & Cross-Sections

9. Related Standards & Companion Specifications

10. B160 vs B162 vs B163 — Nickel Product Forms Compared

11. How to Order — Required Information

12. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why choose N02201 low-carbon nickel over standard N02200?

N02201's ultra-low carbon content (≤0.02% vs ≤0.15% for N02200) prevents carbon precipitation at grain boundaries during high-temperature exposure (above 600°F/316°C). This eliminates intergranular attack and stress corrosion cracking in molten alkali (caustic soda, molten salts) and reducing atmosphere service. Specify N02201 for any high-temperature or caustic service where standard nickel would fail by grain boundary corrosion.

Q: What is the machinability of ASTM B160 nickel rod?

Nickel (N02200) has good machinability comparable to austenitic stainless steel. The material tends to gall if not properly lubricated; using sulfurized cutting oils or EP (extreme pressure) lubricants is recommended. N02211 (manganese-strengthened) has slightly improved machinability. Cold-worked conditions machine better than annealed due to lower ductility and better chip formation. For free-machining alternatives, consider nickel alloys with sulfur additions (UNS N04405).

Q: What corrosion resistance does ASTM B160 nickel offer?

ASTM B160 nickel alloys offer excellent corrosion resistance to: alkaline solutions (caustic soda, sodium hydroxide), reducing atmospheres, organic acids (acetic, fatty), and neutral salt solutions. Pure nickel (N02200) has the highest alkali resistance. Avoid in strongly oxidizing acids (nitric, sulfuric) where corrosion rates increase. For seawater service, consider nickel-copper alloy UNS N04400 (ASTM B164) instead.

Q: Can ASTM B160 nickel be welded?

Yes, ASTM B160 nickel alloys are readily weldable by common processes (GTAW/TIG, GMAW/MIG, SMAW). For N02201, use low-carbon filler metals (ERNi-1) to maintain low-carbon chemistry in the weld zone. Pre-heat is not required for thin sections; post-weld heat treatment is generally not required for pure nickel. Use appropriate nickel welding consumables and control heat input to minimize distortion. Consult ASME Section IX or AWS standards for welding procedure qualification.

Q: What is the difference between N02200 hot-worked and cold-worked bar?

Hot-worked (HW) N02200 bar is produced by hot rolling or forging at elevated temperatures, resulting in: tensile ≥60 ksi, yield ≥15 ksi, elongation ≥35%. Cold-worked (CW) N02200 round bar ≤1" diameter achieves: tensile ≥80 ksi, yield ≥60 ksi, elongation ≥10% — nearly 33% higher tensile strength but lower ductility. Cold-worked bar has better surface finish and tighter dimensional tolerances. Choose hot-worked for best ductility and impact resistance; cold-worked for maximum strength in small diameters.

Q: What surface finishes are available for ASTM B160 nickel bar?

Per ASTM B160 Appendix X1, surface finish options include: (1) As-Hot-Worked — black oxide scale surface, most economical; (2) Rough Ground — ground to remove surface irregularities; (3) Rough Turned — rough machined to close tolerances; (4) Annealed & Pickled — bright, scale-free surface after acid cleaning; (5) Forging Quality — specially processed for subsequent forging. For machined parts, specify Annealed & Pickled for clean starting stock. For maximum economy on rough machining, As-Hot-Worked provides stock allowance.

Request a Quote — ASTM B160 Nickel Rod and Bar

Zhengzhou Huitong (HT Pipe) supplies ASTM B160 / SB-160 compliant nickel rod and bar in all standard UNS alloys (N02200, N02201, N02211) with full EN 10204 3.1 Mill Test Certificates. Available in hot-worked, cold-worked, and annealed conditions with multiple cross-sections (round, hexagonal, square, rectangular bar).