The discovery of tungsten was an important event. Even though this metal was first discovered in 1781, it wasn’t used for industrial purposes until 150 years later. Under natural conditions, tungsten is found in combination with calcium, iron, or manganese. It is believed that there are just 1.25 grams of this metal for every 1,000 kilograms of the Earth’s crust. Currently, tungsten is utilized in various industries due to its special properties.

Tungsten’s Properties

Tungsten has several unique properties. Not only is it denser than steel, it has proven to be more than twice as dense. In addition to being dense, tungsten carbide measures between 8.5 and nine on the Moh’s hardness scale. This means that it is slightly less hard than diamonds, which register at ten on this scale. Furthermore, tungsten carbide’s tensile strength is measured at 1,510 megapascals, which is quite significant.

Another important property of tungsten is its melting point. When in its pure form, tungsten has the highest melting point of any other pure metals at 6,170 degrees Fahrenheit. By way of comparison, molybdenum, which has a high melting point of 4,748 degrees Fahrenheit, tungsten’s melting point exceeds it by 1,422 degrees Fahrenheit.

A metal’s vapor pressure is also important to consider. When compared with other pure metals, tungsten also comes out on top. This is because tungsten also has the lowest vapor pressure.

Learn More About Vacuum Furnaces and Custom Vacuum Furnace Products

Different types of vacuum furnaces are needed for a variety of purposes within industry. The crystal growth, electronics, energy, and medical industries, for example, require furnaces that can exceed temperatures of 1,200 degrees Celsius or 2,192 degrees Fahrenheit.

Whether you’re launching a new manufacturing business that requires vacuum furnaces, or you have been in operation for a number of years, it’s important to note that some vacuum furnace manufacturers are able to provide you with custom vacuum furnace products. When you speak with a representative, you will be able to learn more about the various types of furnaces available as well as order any vacuum furnace parts that you may need. In the event that you require custom vacuum furnace products to address your specific manufacturing needs, you will be able to discuss your specifications at this time.