Niobium Type 3 is a niobium alloy of reactor quality with an addition of approximately 1 percent Zirconium. This alloy combines the purity requirements of reactor grade material with the mechanical improvement that Zirconium adds.
Type 3 is used when both low neutron absorption and a higher strength than Type 1 are required.
The zirconium addition increases tensile strength and hardness compared to unalloyed Niobium, while maintaining corrosion resistance and high melting point.
Because the material meets reactor-grade purity requirements, neutron absorption remains low and predictable.
Type 3 is used in nuclear reactor components where, besides low neutron absorption, higher strength is also required. In aerospace, the Alloy is used for parts that must withstand high temperatures.
Type 3 is also used in cryogenic applications.