About Special Air-Stable Resistance Alloys
Here at Union City Filament, we recognized the need for higher performance air-stable heaters and high temperature springs in precise applications. That is why we have developed a range of products made from special air-stable resistance alloys. The special air-stable resistance alloys we use are great in applications where good form stability is required at high temperatures. These materials are commonly used in furnace applications, industrial heating applications, various consumer appliance applications, precision heating element (heater) applications in addition to electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and other vaping (vape) applications.
Properties of Special Air-Stable Resistance Alloys
Higher Maximum Temperature (in Air)
Compared to Nichrome, our special air-stable resistance alloys have a higher maximum temperature in air; 1400°C (2550°F), while Nichrome’s maximum temperature is 1200°C (2190°F) in air.
Long Life
When operated in air at the same temperature, our special air-stable resistance alloys have a life that is 2 to 4 times longer than that of Nichrome alloys.
Superior Surface Load
Because they have a higher maximum temperature and a longer life, a higher surface load can be applied to products made with our special air-stable resistance alloys.
Higher Resistivity
Given the high resistivity of our special air-stable resistance alloys, it is possible to choose a wire with a larger cross-section, which improves the life of the product.
High Yield Strength
With higher yield strength, our special air-stable resistance alloys experience less change in cross-section when coiling wires. In addition, our special air-stable resistance alloys are less affected by cold working and heat treatment compared to Nichrome alloys.
Lower Density and Weight Savings
Our special air-stable resistance alloys have a lower density (compared to Nichrome alloys). Because of this, there are a greater number of equivalent elements that can be made from the same weight material. And, because of their lower density and higher resistivity, less material is needed when using our special air-stable resistance alloys instead of Nichrome alloys. This results in substantial savings in weight and element costs for a great number of applications.
Oxidation Properties
Our special air-stable resistance alloys form a protective oxide layer. At temperatures above 1000°C (1830°F), this oxide layer is light gray and consists mainly of alumina (Al2O3). At lower temperatures, the oxide color is darker. This alumina layer has excellent electrical insulating properties, as well as a good chemical resistance to most compounds.
Using Special air-stable Resistance Alloys for Your Filament Design
Wondering if a special air-stable resistance alloy is the best material for your filament design? Our experts at Union City Filament can help design the best component to fit your product’s needs. As industry leaders since 1950, we have perfected the best processes for winding and forming special air-stable resistance alloys, tungsten, rhenium and other alloys to ensure our products maintain the tightest possible tolerances on dimensions and uniformity. For more information on our products, please contact us today.
Regardless of what your end application is, Union City Filament’s expert engineers will work with you to design the best filament or heater to suit your needs.
Questions? Contact us today for help.
