REALLY NEED HELP! METAL SELECTION TO USE IN METHANOL FUEL.

[bob1111]

I could REALLY use some help here. We are designing a new fuel system part for the auto industry that will be used in Methanol. many parts are brass but this can corrode if left in Methanol for extended periods. With our new part, we have considered Stainless Steel for its reduced corrosion properties. However, because this is a small machined part, machinability and cost are factors here.

I am trying to select not only a material that is perfect for use in methanol, but a material that also machines well and is affordable. We can use nearly ANY metallic material. So far, Stainless seems to be the only answer. Can anyone put us on the right path here? At least a group of materials??

 

[MikeHalloran]

A long time ago, I worked with a small part that had a tiny hole, and a yield problem. Carpenter 20Cb3 survived the environment, and machined better ('well' is relative in the stainless world) than anything else that did. Factoring in the yield and service life of other materials made it the cheapest choice, too.

I'm not saying that particular alloy is what you need, but I would contact Carpenter (cartech.com) first.





Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[EdStainless]

Look at the lean duplex LDX2101 (no I don't work for Outokumpu). This grade has general corrosion and pitting resistance similar to 316, much better stress cracking resistance, double the strength, and BETTER MACHINABILITY.
I have seen data that even indicates that this grade machines easier than various 'free machining' SS grades (which you don't want to use because their corrosion resistance is poor).

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Plymouth Tube

 

[TVP]

I agree with the suggestion to contact Carpenter, as they are very familiar with the various stainless grades suitable for automotive use. The lean duplex grade LDX2101 may be quite suitable, but obtaining it in the exact product form that you desire may be a problem. In general I dislike the conventional free-machining grades of austenitic stainless steel like Type 303 for the reasons Ed stated, but if this part is contained within an assembly, and not exposed to the environment, then it may be acceptable. One quick question: have you considered cold forming the part out of Type 302HQ (Cartech again) with only limited secondary machining to complete the geometry? It may be less expensive and have better performance (strength, corrosion, etc.).

 

[bob1111]

Again, strength is really not a concern here. The OE parts are made from Brass. The part is more or less a flow valve. Machining is the only cost effective method due to quantities.

Would there be anything in the Brass grades that would hold up to Methanol?


Thanks