Also known as: Invar, NILO 36, 1.3912, 4J36, Nickel-Iron 36 Alloy
1. What is Invar 36 Alloy?
Invar 36 is a 36% nickel-iron precision alloy renowned for its near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Discovered by Swiss physicist Charles Édouard Guillaume in 1896 (who won the 1920 Nobel Prize in Physics for this breakthrough), Invar 36 maintains exceptional dimensional stability across wide temperature ranges, making it irreplaceable for high-precision industrial applications.
With a stable austenitic microstructure, its thermal expansion coefficient is as low as 1.2×10⁻⁶/℃ from -200℃ to +200℃—far lower than carbon steel, stainless steel, and most industrial alloys. This unique “Invar Effect” eliminates thermal deformation, earning it the reputation of the “Size Guardian” in modern manufacturing.
2. Core Properties of Invar 36 (Alloy 36/NiFe36)
Ultra-Low Thermal Expansion
Near-zero dimensional change under extreme temperature fluctuations
CTE matched with composite materials, glass, and ceramics for precision assembly
Excellent Mechanical & Processing Performance
Tensile strength: 450–680 MPa; Elongation: 25–40%
Good machinability, weldability, and formability
Superior low-temperature toughness, stable performance at -196℃
Physical & Chemical Characteristics
Density: 8.1 g/cm³; Melting point: 1430–1450℃
Low thermal conductivity, ideal for precision temperature-control components
Moderate corrosion resistance; surface treatment recommended for harsh environments
3. Key Industrial Applications
Aerospace & Aviation
Invar 36 is a core material for satellite antennas, spacecraft structures, aircraft engine components, and composite molding tools. It maintains dimensional accuracy in the extreme temperature environment of outer space (-180℃ to +120℃) and ensures flight safety for navigation systems and engine parts.
Precision Optics & Metrology
Used in astronomical telescope frames, laser resonators, optical benches, and standard gauge blocks. Invar 36 guarantees long-term stability for global measurement standards and high-precision optical systems.
Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing
Critical for wafer carriers, lithography machine components, microwave resonators, and display shadow masks. It supports micron/nanometer-level positioning accuracy in advanced chip manufacturing and high-frequency electronic devices.
Cryogenic & Energy Engineering
Applied to LNG storage tanks, liquid hydrogen/oxygen containers, and superconducting equipment. Invar 36 minimizes shrinkage at ultra-low temperatures (-163℃), ensuring structural safety and sealing performance.
Advanced Manufacturing & Scientific Research
Widely used in precision molds, quantum computing components, sensors, and cutting-edge scientific instruments, supporting technological innovation in global high-end industries.
4. International Grades & Industry Standards
Invar 36 has unified global grading systems for cross-border procurement and engineering applications:
International grades: Invar 36, Alloy 36, NiFe36, FeNi36, NILO 36, 1.3912 (W.Nr)
Chinese grade: 4J36 (GB/T 15018)
Certifications & standards: ASTM F1684, DIN 17745, ISO 6753-1, NADCAP (Aerospace)
5. Why Global Buyers Choose Invar 36?
Invar 36 solves the core pain point of thermal deformation in high-precision engineering. It reduces product failure rates, improves assembly accuracy, and extends service life—making it the first choice for aerospace, semiconductor, optical, and cryogenic industries.
As a trusted supplier of Invar 36 (Alloy 36/NiFe36), we provide aerospace-grade sheets, bars, forgings, and custom components, complying with international standards and supporting global export with full technical support.
Conclusion
Invar 36 (Alloy 36, NiFe36, FeNi36) is more than a special alloy—it is the foundation of modern precision industry. With unrivaled dimensional stability, it empowers technological breakthroughs in aerospace, semiconductors, and cutting-edge science. For projects demanding zero tolerance for thermal expansion, Invar 36 is the definitive solution.
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