Q: I need to attach an LNG cryogenic pump and need to make sure I use a material that can withstand temperatures of –120 °F as well as don’t embrittle when fluctuating back to room temperature. Any suggestions?

A:  Monel K500 is a common choice for  cyrogenic fasteners. It can handle temperatures as low as -200°F with virtually no change it is ductility or toughness – in fact at low temperatures K500 actually increases in tensile and yield strength. Monel K500 fasteners are also are virtually non-magnetic and spark resistant at cryogenic temperatures.

Q: Is Alloy 330 Magnetic?

A:   Though alloy 330 does contains iron and chromium, it also contains nickel. The nickel component is what helps to strengthen the protective qualities of the chromium however, the presence of nickel also makes this metal non-magnetic. The reason is that the presence of the nickel alters the physical structure of the stainless steel and removes or inhibits any magnetic qualities.