Applications and properties of Tungsten Wire Mesh

Introduction

Tungsten is one of the rare metals found on Earth. It is commonly found combined with other elements. The element was first identified in 1781 and was isolated for the first time in 1783. The element is famous for its robustness and durability, especially the high melting point.

Tungsten and its alloys are used for various purposes such as making the filament of light bulbs, in X-ray tube (both as filaments and target), as electrodes in TIG welding, superalloys,and radiation shielding. The hardness of the material makes it useful in military applications such as penetrating projectiles.

Tungsten Wire Mesh

The tungsten wire mesh is extremely popular due to its ability to withstand oxidation and corrosion in acidic as well as alkaline media. This makes it valuable in the elevated temperature filtration process. The properties of tungsten wire mesh include one of the best high-temperature mechanical characteristics and smallest coefficient of thermal expansion when compared to the other metals.

The mesh also shows extreme thermal creeping resistance and is easily able to withstand temperatures up to 3400°C. The mesh is extremely durable, flat, clean and practically flawless. This makes it an ideal material for use in vital filter and screening in mechanical, electrical, vacuum equipment, etc.

Real-world applications

Tungsten wire mesh is regularly used in fire hazard security, chemical industries, scientific research labs and universities, hydrogen production facilities, and heat shielding along with other places that require a material with high heat and corrosion resistance.

Properties

·        A mesh made using Tungsten is able to maintain its dimensional stability even after multiple heating and cooling cycles. The large radiating surface helps in decreasing surface watt load on the heating elements.

·         It is not possible to avoid heat stress within high heat environments such as furnaces, the natural ability of tungsten mesh along with the weave design allows it to handle stress a lot better.

·         The mild wear and tear do not affect the lifecycle of the mesh in any way.

Why are they used so widely?

The mesh made out of tungsten are immune to the mechanical and thermal stress which results in longer life to the material. When a tungsten wire mesh is made, each of the wire coils is woven together with another one in order to make a regular mesh network over the complete width and length of the mesh which gives excellent thermal service.

The diameter of both the warp and weft wires are controlled, the mesh produced is highly accurate. During production, the wire diameter, pitch,and height of bends can be controlled to create the wire mesh as needed. The wires pass through one another alternatively providing wire cloth due to secure interlocking.

In engineering and construction fields, tungsten mesh is used widely due to its excellent durability and strength. Its significant role in protecting against fire hazard is due to its ability to withstand temperatures in excess of 3400°C. The wire mesh also shows higher physical stability and print repeatability than the traditional steel mesh.