Inconel 718 is one of the most widely used nickel-based superalloys in aerospace, energy, and industrial applications. As a high-value alloy with significant nickel and niobium content, its scrap price is considerably higher than that of ordinary stainless steel. However, unlike base metals such as copper or aluminum, there is no single exchange price for alloy scrap—its value depends on form, cleanliness, regional demand, and the buyer's specific capabilities.
The value of Inconel 718 lies in its complex chemical composition:
High Nickel Content: Provides the foundation for corrosion resistance and value.
Niobium (Columbium): This is the key strengthening element for alloy 718, enabling it to maintain its strength in the high-temperature, high-pressure environment of jet engines. For specialized refiners, the niobium content is a primary factor in determining a premium price for scrap. Its scarcity is what distinguishes 718 from common nickel-bearing stainless steels (like the 300 series).
Compared to the market volatility seen in 2025, early 2026 prices for Inconel 718 are showing a divergence. Prices for clean, certified bulk materials remain strong, supported by recovering aerospace demand, while mixed, contaminated lots continue to trade at lower levels. Please note that the prices below are market reference ranges and are not guaranteed offers. Always confirm final pricing with your buyer.
| Scrap Type / Condition | Price Range (USD/lb) | Price Range (USD/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean Solid Scrap (plate, bar, chunks) | $3.00 – $6.50+ | $6.60 – $14.30+ | The high end of this range typically requires large volumes of certified aerospace-grade return material. |
| Clean Turnings (dry, oil-free) | $2.00 – $5.00 | $4.40 – $11.00 | Priced lower than solids due to buyer processing costs (e.g., drying, crushing, degreasing). |
| Castings with Scale/Coatings | $0.75 – $2.25 | $1.65 – $4.95 | Contaminants complicate processing and lower recovery rates, leading to significant discounts. |
| Mixed/Unsorted Lots (with contaminants) | $0.25 – $1.25 | $0.55 – $2.75 | The lowest price range, typical for material mixed with other steels or copper, requiring re-sorting to recover value. |
1. Alloy Composition & Purity: This is the deciding factor. High nickel and niobium content are the basis of value. Mixing in lower-value alloys like Inconel 600 or stainless steel will significantly lower the price.
2. Scrap Form: Solids > Turnings > Mixed Contaminated Scrap. Solids can be melted directly with high recovery. Turnings have a high surface area, are prone to oxidation, and may contain oils, increasing processing costs for the buyer.
3. Cleanliness & Contamination: Contaminants such as bolts, copper wires, rubber seals, or other non-metallic and foreign metal attachments will result in buyers deducting processing fees, or potentially rejecting the lot entirely.
4. Volume & Consistency: A truckload of chemically consistent, clean material will almost always command a higher price per pound than a few buckets of material with an unknown history. Bulk transactions lower the buyer's logistics and testing costs.
5. Regional Market Differences: Locations near aerospace manufacturing hubs or with specialized high-temp alloy recyclers typically offer higher prices. Markets focused on export are influenced by international shipping costs and tariffs.
Actual prices vary significantly by region and material form. The following are reference signals gathered from public sources. Please note that the high-end prices typically apply to large volumes of certified, clean solid scrap:
| Region | Reference Price Range (USD/lb) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| China (Import/Export Offers) | ~$5.50 – $6.35/lb | This represents exporter asking prices, typically for container-load quantities of clean, stable solids. Actual local buying prices will be lower. |
| India (Local Market Example) | ~$3.60 – $5.90/lb | Based on spot inquiries in metal trading markets like Mumbai; prices can be volatile. |
| USA (Recycler Indications) | ~$2.00 – $6.00/lb | A composite of offers from various recyclers. Achieving the high end requires large, certified aerospace-grade lots. |
Segregate Ruthlessly: Do not mix 718 with other alloys like 625, 600, or X-750, nor with common stainless steel.
Clean Your Material: Remove all steel attachments, copper wires, plastics, and rubber.
Prepare Your Turnings: Remove cutting fluids and oils as much as possible. Dry turnings prevent weight deductions and processing fees.
Get an Analysis: If you have a significant quantity, use an XRF gun or pay for a third-party lab assay. Prove the high niobium content to the buyer with data.
Find the Right Buyer: Skip the local general scrap yard. Contact specialized high-temperature alloy recyclers, metal traders, or large steel mills directly. They can offer much more accurate pricing for prepared material.
Specialized Alloy Recyclers: The best channel for maximizing price, especially for well-prepared bulk materials.
B2B Platforms: Platforms like Alibaba have alloy scrap listings. These can be useful for understanding global seller asking prices, but remember that these are not the same as local buyer purchase prices.
Local Scrap Yards: Convenient for small, mixed lots, but manage your expectations for the price.
In the 2026 market for Inconel 718 scrap, the principle of "you get what you pay for" holds true, but in this case, if you prepare your material, you get paid for its quality. The price reflects not only nickel market fluctuations but also the value of its complex chemistry and the health of the aerospace manufacturing sector. Understanding your material, preparing it properly, and finding a specialized buyer are the keys to maximizing your return.
Disclaimer: The price information in this article is compiled from public market data and is for reference only. It does not constitute a trading offer. Always confirm final prices directly with a scrap buyer or recycler.
How much is Inconel 718 scrap worth per pound/kg in 2026?
The price range is broad, from as low as $0.55/kg ($0.25/lb) for mixed, contaminated lots to over $14.30/kg ($6.50/lb) for certified, clean solids. The exact price depends on the material's form, cleanliness, and volume. Refer to the price table in the article above.
Why is Inconel 718 scrap so much more expensive than regular stainless steel?
Because it contains significant amounts of the strategic metals nickel and, most importantly, niobium. Niobium is the key to 718's exceptional high-temperature strength. Its recovery is complex, and demand is driven by high-end sectors like aerospace, which supports a premium price.
How can I get a rough estimate of what my Inconel 718 scrap is worth?
An accurate valuation requires an XRF analysis. As a rough guide, you can look at the current Nickel price on the London Metal Exchange (LME) and gauge the general market demand for niobium-bearing alloys. A professional buyer will then make an offer based on the nickel price, niobium content, scrap form, and volume of your specific lot.
Where can I find reliable reference prices?
You can check market summaries from specialized metal recyclers (like MWAlloys mentioned in sources), look at bulk asking prices on B2B platforms, or subscribe to industry price reporting services like Fastmarkets or Metal Bulletin. However, the most direct reference is a real-time quote from a large, specialized scrap buyer in your region.
25th floor, C3 Building, Wanda Plaza, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
en
ko
ru
es
ar
hi
