Zirconium Metal Supplier

Zirconium Properties and Appearance

Zirconium is an element represented by Zr and the atomic number 40 on the periodic table. It belongs to the refractory and corrosion resistance groups and appears as a lustrous silvery-grey white metal mainly used as a refractory and opacifier. Zirconium melts at 1855° C, and its high resistance to heat and corrosion makes it a valuable part of the nuclear industry which uses 90% of the Zirconium produced each year.

Zirconium is considered for the toughest demands because it can be an additive to other alloys to make lighter components and materials with the same strength. In addition, its excellent resistance in highly corrosive environments makes it more of an in-demand source material.

Applications

Zirconium is widely used as refractory, and small amounts can also be used as an alloying agent because of its anti-corrosion properties. It is an important constituent of ceramic colors and a vital component of lead-zirconia-titanate electronic ceramics. Due to its enhancing capabilities, pure Zirconia can also be used as a refractory oxide additive. Zirconium is also capable of improving the properties of surface coatings in particular high-usage areas. In chemical plants, Zirconium protects piping and equipment against corrosion in the presence of high acid concentrations or alkaline solutions.

Zirconium is used in cans for reactor fuel rods and pressure tubes in nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines. It is also an ingredient to further increase the strength of magnesium alloys used in aircraft manufacturing. Due to its resistance, it is used extensively by the chemical industry and can also be mixed with other metals and alloys to form different pigments for glazing pottery.

Zirconium is used in the following industries:

• Nuclear applications
• Space and aeronautics
• Jet engines and gas turbines
• Medical
• Power generation
• Equipment (positron emission tomography cameras)
• Automotive
• Ceramics (pigments, porcelain glaze)
• Abrasives (insulating and fire-retarding materials)

Formats supplied:

Vulcan Metal Group Supplies Zirconium bar, powder, rod, plate, tube, pipe, foil, wire and crucible. Custom machined and finished parts supplied to print.
Please contact us for a quote or more on how Vulcan Metal Group can help your business.