Tungsten, known for its exceptional properties, boasts the highest melting point and extreme hardness among metals. Its unique physical and chemical properties make it widely used in industries that require high-temperature resistance and strength, such as aerospace, military, and cutting tool manufacturing.
What type of metal is tungsten?
Tungsten is a rare refractory metal. It belongs to Group 6 in the periodic table with an atomic number of 74 as a transition metal. Tungsten's density and melting point are among the highest. Its properties are broadly similar to those of molybdenum, as both metals belong to the same group in the periodic table. However, some of tungsten's characteristics are more pronounced than those of molybdenum. Tungsten has excellent thermal properties, allowing it to easily withstand very high temperatures.
Tungsten has extensive industrial applications, particularly its alloy products, which inherit tungsten's high-temperature strength and hardness. Let's delve deeper into the characteristics of tungsten by comparing the properties and applications of tungsten steel and stainless steel.
Tungsten steel vs stainless steel
Item | Tungsten Steel | Stainless Steel |
Chemical Composition | Steel, C, W, etc. | Fe, Cr, Ni, and other elements |
Properties | High hardness, thermal stability, and heat resistance. | Excellent corrosion, heat, and high-temperature resistance. |
Advantages | It has excellent cutting performance and wear resistance, making it suitable for processing hard materials. It also has good thermal stability, allowing it to maintain high hardness at elevated temperatures. | Remains rust-free even with prolonged use in acidic or alkaline environments. |
Disadvantages | It has higher manufacturing costs and is difficult to process. | It has relatively lower strength and is prone to plastic deformation. |
Applications | Aerospace, military, industrial medical, etc. | Construction, food processing, medical devices, chemicals, etc. |
Does tungsten block radiation?
The ability of metal materials to absorb X-rays and gamma rays is directly proportional to their density. Tungsten atoms are more closely packed than lead, resulting in a higher density and thus more effective blocking of harmful ionizing radiation. Previously, medical radiation shielding materials often chose to lead with a density of 11.3 g/cm³. Now, these lead shielding components have been replaced by high-density tungsten and tungsten alloys with even more ideal radiation absorption capabilities.
Advantages of Tungsten and Tungsten Alloy Radiation Shielding Material
- Tungsten and tungsten alloy's shielding effect against radiation is more than 1.5 times that of lead;
- Tungsten and tungsten alloy are harder and not as soft as lead, which is prone to scratches and can even be cut with a knife;
- Tungsten and tungsten alloy have a high melting point, high ductility, low yield strength, and good impact toughness;
- Tungsten and tungsten alloy is a non-toxic, environmentally friendly "green" alloy, whereas heavy metal lead can pollute the environment and is harmful to human health.
Product forms of Tungsten and Tungsten Alloy Radiation Shielding Material
- Tungsten and Tungsten alloy isotope containers
- Tungsten and Tungsten alloy collimators
- Tungsten and Tungsten alloy syringe shields
Tungsten's multifunctionality and importance are crucial in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and medical protection. Its high melting point and density make it a superior choice for radiation shielding and high-temperature applications. As technology advances, tungsten's potential in energy, material science, and environmental sectors is expected to be fully realized.
Heeger Materials is a reputable supplier offering top-notch Refractory Metals products at competitive prices, which are widely used in interventional medicine. If you're interested, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] for a quote, and we guarantee a response within 24 hours.