Abstract: A wear and oxidation resistant nickel-base alloy, exhibiting resistance to thermal cracking in high-stress elevated temperature environments, comprises, in weight percentages based on total alloy weight: 53 to 67 nickel; 20 to 26 chromium; and 12 to 18 tungsten. The alloy optionally further comprises, in weight percentages based on total alloy weight, at least one of: up to 3 cobalt; up to 3 molybdenum; up to 6 iron; 0.1 to 0.5 manganese; 0.1 to 0.7 silicon; 0.1 to 0.6 aluminum; and less than 0.05 carbon. Components of a seamless tube manufacturing apparatus fabricated from the alloy also are provided. The components may be, for example, tools for one of a piercing mill, a high mill, and a rotary expander, such as piercer points, piercing mill guide shoes, rotary expander guide shoes, reeler guide shoes, and high-mill plugs.

Abstract: The rolling mill plug assembly comprises a guide plug and a working plug joined together in interlocking relationship. The working plug includes a female connection formed by a socket recess in one end. Two opposing flanges extend over the recess and are spaced apart by a central opening and opposing slots in registry with the recess. The guide plug includes a male connection comprised of a neck extending outward from one end of the guide plug which terminates in two opposingly extending lugs which are adapted to pass through the slots and into the recess in the working plug. Rotating the guide plug positions the lugs under the flanges and locks the guide plug in place within the recess of the working plug. A key assembly can be employed with the two plugs to maintain them in interlocking relationship.