Zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), or zirconia, has a rich history of diverse applications. This is courtesy of the material’s many strengths, including its aesthetic qualities. Gemstones derived from zircon were prized in ancient Egyptian jewellery, and though the material generally finds more practical applications today, cubic zirconia remains the most popular diamond simulant on the market. At the other end of the spectrum—as far as functionality is concerned—zirconium alloy tubing is ubiquitous in nuclear power stations, as it boasts extremely low neutron capture. In fact, more than 90% of mined zirconium is deployed in fission reactors.

And, still, there are many more applications of zirconia ceramics to explore.

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Engineers increasingly turn to technical ceramics for demanding applications where traditional materials fall short. These materials offer an outstanding combination of high hardness, superior wear resistance, and robust thermal stability, maintaining their integrity under extreme temperatures and corrosive environments. Whether for aerospace components, cutting tools, or molten metal components, their unique properties make them indispensable. Their low mass compared to metals further enhances performance by providing strength without excessive weight, making them an ideal choice for advanced engineering solutions.

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Prototyping is inherently concerned with meticulous material selection. It concerns the rigorous, multi-step process of generating the right tool for a job. This can be complex even for relatively forgiving conditions. But there is very little margin for error in wear applications. Poor material selection can have severe deleterious effects on operations with abrasive environments. It’s essential to choose materials that can withstand the dynamic stresses of the intended application. However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution in the world of prototyping.

Pipes, valves, and other flow components must withstand significant thermomechanical stresses, plus chemical exposure throughout service. But these factors are far from constant. Sharp temperature variations can induce brittleness. Abrupt mechanical stress can allow microcracks to propagate. Over time, these issues can precipitate microstructural changes that increase a material’s tendency to break under stress. 

How do you decide between one engineering material and another? Cost is often one of the main influencers, but it is impossible to fully characterise integration and maintenance costs without fully understanding the material’s time-dependent performance under service conditions. Continue reading→

Stainless steel is an extremely popular engineering material, but it is not without flaws. The characteristic corrosion resistance of stainless grades will diminish under certain challenging conditions. Corrosion, erosion, and oxidation are not only possible but likely in the presence of harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and abrasive media. These factors contribute to performance and structural losses over time. Fortunately, there is a wealth of alternatives to choose from. Continue reading→

The properties of advanced ceramics make them extremely valuable in a wide range of industrial applications, like transportation, aerospace, and manufacturing. Most advanced ceramics are imbued with a crystalline or semi-crystalline structure, meaning they have improved thermal, electrical, and mechanical attributes. Moreover, advanced ceramics are specifically designed with a microstructural composition that is consistent to maintain the ceramic’s enhanced characteristics.

Milling media is a critical component in the materials processing industry. It plays a pivotal role in the mechanical reduction of particle size in a vast array of raw materials and products, from pharmaceuticals to ceramics and metals.

In the specialized field of surface treatment, shot blasting emerges as a key technique. At the heart of its success is the shot blast nozzle. This is a component that has a design that can significantly influence the final results of your treatment.

A ceramic heater tube can be used in environments that require corrosion or abrasion resistant materials or need high temperature resistance. This makes them perfect for equipment used in temperature-specific industrial processes.