In the world of high-performance metals, one element stands out both literally and figuratively: Tungsten. This metal has become the backbone of industries operating at the physical limits of what is possible. While Tungsten was associated for years primarily with light bulb filaments, it is now a critical strategic raw material for the defense, aerospace, and semiconductor industries. In this article, we dive deeper into the unique properties of this metal, the rise of advanced alloys, and the causes behind the recent, explosive rise in the Tungsten price.

The physical limits: Unique Tungsten properties

Tungsten is known for its extreme properties. It is a metal that pushes boundaries in every aspect, which is exactly why engineers turn to it when other materials fail.

The unrivaled Tungsten melting point

The most striking property is undoubtedly the melting point. With a temperature of 3,422°C, Tungsten has the highest melting point of all metals in the periodic table. For comparison: iron melts at just 1,538°C. This heat resistance makes it indispensable in environments with extreme thermal loads, such as rocket engines, plasma installations, and medical X-ray tubes.

However, there is an important practical consideration: the melting point does not tell the whole story about the maximum operating temperature. A common misconception is that Tungsten can be loaded just below its melting point in any situation. In a normal atmospheric environment, this limit is much lower due to rapid oxidation; as soon as Tungsten comes into contact with air at temperatures from approximately 400 to 600 degrees Celsius, the material begins to oxidize. Only in a vacuum or inert gas does Tungsten maintain its structural integrity at extreme temperatures.

Extreme tungsten density

With a value of 19.3 g/cm³, the density of Tungsten is nearly equal to that of gold. This makes the metal extremely heavy for its volume. This property is utilized for ballistic applications, balance weights in Formula 1 and aerospace, and as superior protection against ionizing radiation. In the nuclear and medical sectors, Tungsten increasingly replaces toxic lead.

Tungsten hardness and wear resistance

The hardness of Tungsten is another crucial factor. While pure Tungsten is already impressive, in the form of Tungsten Carbide it reaches a hardness approaching that of diamond. This translates into extreme resistance to deformation and wear.

Advanced metallurgy: Tungsten heavy alloys (THAs)

Pure Tungsten can be brittle and difficult to machine. To optimize properties for specific industrial applications, Tungsten Heavy Alloys (THAs) are developed, usually consisting of 90% to 97% Tungsten.

WNiFe and WNiCu

WNiFe (Tungsten-Nickel-Iron) is the most used alloy. Adding Nickel and Iron increases ductility and makes the material easier to machine. WNiFe is also magnetic. For situations where magnetic interference must be avoided, such as MRI equipment, the non-magnetic WNiCu variant is the solution.

Tungsten-Rhenium (W-Re)

For aerospace and nuclear applications, the W-Re alloy is invaluable. The addition of rhenium significantly lowers the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature, keeping the material stable even after repeated heating to extreme temperatures.

Analysis: Causes of the Tungsten price increase

The market for Tungsten is currently very volatile. Recent market analyses attribute the price rise to three main factors:

  1. Chinese Dominance: China controls about 80% of global production and has recently imposed strict export quotas and environmental policies.
  2. Geopolitical Tensions: Increased global conflicts have driven demand for ammunition and armor-piercing projectiles to record highs.
  3. Operational Costs: The extraction and processing of Tungsten are extremely energy-intensive, and rising energy prices are reflected in the final price.

Practical procurement: Buying Tungsten at Metel

When you decide to buy Tungsten, the choice of form and alloy is crucial. Metel supports engineers and buyers in making the right choice between various semi-finished products:

  • Tungsten rods: Ideal for TIG welding electrodes, electronics contact points, or precision machining.
  • Tungsten sheets: Often used for thermal shielding in vacuum furnaces or for manufacturing complex radiation shields.

Conclusion: The future of Tungsten

Tungsten is more than just a metal; it is a technological and strategic enabler. Despite the challenging market and rising prices, investing in quality Tungsten pays for itself through durability and unprecedented performance. At Metel, we understand the complexity of this market and help safeguard your supply chain. You can always contact us via 0416-724800 or by e-mail info@metel.nl