What is Refractory Metals?

Speaking about refractory metals, it is necessary to understand what metals fall under this definition. Vanadium, tungsten, molybdenum, niobium, rhenium, tantalum, zirconium and hafnium metals, the melting point of which reaches 1650-1700 ° C.

In its pure form, refractory metals are not found in nature. They are obtained from ore concentrates, using a complex three-step technology. The first stage is the opening of the concentrate, then the separation and purification of the chemical compounds takes place and, in conclusion, the reduction and refining of the metal.

The sphere of use of refractory metals is quite wide. Refractory metals are used in mechanical engineering, shipbuilding, electronic and chemical industries, which is due to their unique properties, namely their use in alloys as heat-resistant materials.

Let's consider each of the refractory metals separately.

Vanadium is a solid metal of gray-steel color. Its name was given to the metal in honor of the beauty goddess Vanadis, thanks to the color of the salts that are included in its composition. Vanadium is resistant to water and various acids. It is used in the production of rubber, ceramics, glass and, of course, steels. As a positive electrode in storage batteries, vanadium pentoxide is used.

Tungsten is a gray solid metal, under standard conditions it can be called the most refractory metal used in metallurgy as a base. The name wolfram was derived from the mineral wolframite (wolf foam), which was known back in the 15th century, as tungsten made it difficult to smelt tin. Tungsten finds its application in the manufacture of special boats, used for growing single crystals, melting glass, etc.

Molybdenum is a refractory metal of a silvery white color. Molybdenum is practically not subject to oxidation, and reaction with hydrogen occurs when molybdenum reaches the melting point (2620 ° C). It is used in the production of filaments for electric lamps, as well as for the manufacture of cathodes of vacuum devices.

Niobium is a light-gray refractory metal that can be easily processed, resistant to aggressive media. It is part of stainless steel, heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant alloys, improving their mechanical properties.

Rhenium belongs to the heaviest of refractory metals. The alloys of this light gray metal with tungsten and molybdenum are fireproof and are used for the production of supersonic aircraft and rockets.

Tantalum is a chemically stable refractory metal of light gray color with a lilac ebb. In metallurgy finds application as a component of corrosion-resistant, heat-resistant and hard alloys.

In its pure form, zirconium is a shiny metal that can be easily processed both hot and cold. A distinctive feature of this metal is that it has a very high resistance to corrosion.

Hafnium is contained in zirconium ores. Metal with silver luster used to produce absorbing rods of nuclear reactors.