Refractory metals stand out for their exceptional qualities, including remarkable resistance to heat, wear, and corrosion. These characteristics make refractory metal tubing an invaluable component in various high-temperature, high-stress environments.
This article discusses the types of refractory metal tubing, and their applications. Hope that you can learn about their features and demand.
Refractory metals are notable for their extraordinarily high melting points, typically over 2000°C (3632°F). So, they have become the materials of choice for applications that operate under intense heat. The most commonly recognized members of this group include tungsten, molybdenum, tantalum, niobium, and rhenium. These metals not only boast high melting points but also exhibit superior strength at elevated temperatures, remarkable hardness, and significant heat and corrosion resistance.
The most common types of refractory metals used for tubing include:
Each type of refractory metal tubing (see Table 1) serves distinct industries and applications. Yet, the choice of material depends on the required resistance to heat, corrosion, and wear, as well as the specific environmental conditions it will face.
Table 1. Different Refractory Metal Tubing
Refractory Metal Tubing | Melting Point (°C) | Key Properties | Common Applications |
Tungsten Tubing | 3422 | Exceptional high-temperature strength | Aerospace (rocket engine nozzles), lighting (filament supports), electronics (electrodes) |
Rhenium Tubing | 3186 | Extremely resistant to wear and thermal shock | High-temperature turbine engines, electrical contacts, filaments |
Tantalum Tubing | 3017 | Highly corrosion-resistant and biocompatible | Chemical processing equipment, medical implants, surgical tools |
Molybdenum Tubing | 2623 | Excellent heat resistance and strength at elevated temperatures | Furnace applications, electronics, high-temperature thermal systems |
Niobium Tubing | 2477 | Corrosion-resistant, similar to tantalum | Aerospace components, nuclear reactors, electronics (capacitors, superconductors) |
Alloyed Tubing (Examples) | Varies | Improved properties such as ductility, corrosion resistance, or strength at high temperatures | W-Re: Thermocouples, electrical contacts;
Mo-Re: Aerospace, defense; Nb-Ti: Superconducting magnets |
Refractory metal tubing finds critical applications across industries. Let’s explore some of the key uses:
Tungsten and molybdenum tubing are integral components in the manufacturing of jet engines and rocket nozzles. These devices can withstand extreme temperatures and corrosive conditions. For example, the nozzles of the Space Shuttle’s main engine were made using refractory metals to handle the high heat generated during launch.
Tantalum’s excellent biocompatibility and corrosion resistance make it a preferred material for orthopedic implants. You can find these components in bone screws and dental implants. Its porous form can be used to create scaffolds that encourage bone growth.
The chemical processing industry relies on refractory metal tubing for the safe transport and containment of highly corrosive substances. Tantalum tubes find use in heat exchangers and reaction vessels due to their unparalleled resistance to acid attacks.
Tantalum and niobium are key materials in the production of electronic components like capacitors. Additionally, tungsten tubing is useful in electrical contacts and interconnects for its high conductivity and melting point.
Tantalum and niobium tubing serve as cladding for nuclear fuel rods. They possess corrosion resistance to nuclear fuels and byproducts, and they can operate at high temperatures.
In essence, refractory metal tubing is a cornerstone of innovation across numerous industries. These materials demonstrate the vast potential from enhancing the reliability of aerospace propulsion systems to advancing medical implant technologies and safeguarding nuclear reactors.
With reliable suppliers and advanced designs, the applications and demand for refractory metal tubing are set to expand. Advanced Refractory Metals (ARM) can supply you with tubes and pipes made of quality refractory metals that perfectly meet the needs of your project. Send us an inquiry if you are interested.
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