Tungsten (also known as Wolfram) is remarkable for its robust physical properties, and high density. Quite simply it is one of the toughest metals on Earth. It is solid, durable and can withstand exceedingly high temperatures. For this reason, is best known for its application in lighting technologies, helping to keep our bulbs glowing brighter for longer. But there are many other areas of engineering and technology were Tungsten is a leading player. Tungsten alloys (heavy Tungsten) is a major engineering material due to its machinability over pure Tungsten
- Highest tensile strength at temperatures above 1650 °C
- Extremely hard wearing, heavy (dense) and strong
- Highest melting point of all metals, at 3422 °C
- Lowest vapour pressure of all metals
- Good thermal conductivity
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- It can be easily alloyed to add extra characteristics and bring strength to other materials
You’ll find Tungsten alloys speeding round Formula One racetracks at 360km/h. You’ll also find Pure Tungsten working slowly and carefully in scanning technologies (X-ray, MRI), helping us take pictures of brains and bones. Whilst Tungsten filament light bulbs, known around the World, are becoming obsolete, Tungsten lamps in different forms are used widely in laser technology, UV, and heater technology.
Tungsten & Tungsten based alloy applications include:
- TIG Welding electrodes
- Electrodes for discharge lamps
- Components for manufacturing quartz glass
- X-ray targets
- Thermo elements for furnace construction
- Balancing weights and vibration dampers in motors and drive components
- Balance weights in racing cars and boats
- Collimator and shielding components
- Load-resistant crankshafts for Formula 1 cars.
Other interesting Tungsten or Tungsten based alloy applications include:
- Ballpoints for pens
- Weights for fishing
- Mobile phone vibrating components
- Professional darts
- Bullets, other ballistics and military armour