How is tantalum used in chemical processing?
The production of chemical products can be an intensive and highly dangerous process. That’s why it’s essential to use the correct tools – made of the correct materials – to ensure the safety of those involved as well as the success of the project as a whole.
Tantalum is a common material used in such processes because its structure and reactivity (or lack thereof) to such environments are ideal for chemical production. But what exactly are the properties of tantalum that make it so useful?
At Special Metals, we’re experts in metal fabrication and work with tantalum regularly to produce tantalum sheets, bars, cladding and more for our clients. If you require such products for your business, reach out to Special Metals today, or keep reading to learn more.
What is tantalum?
First discovered in the 1800s, tantalum is a high-density refractory metal that has since come to be used in various industrial applications.
In its natural form, it is shiny and silver in colour, not dissimilar in appearance to tin foil. However, compared to similar metals used in similar applications, like stainless steel, it is considerably ductile, making it easy to manipulate and mould into the desired parts.
At the start of its growth, it was used mainly in the creation of lamp filaments and military equipment before the start of WWI. However, the electronics boom in the mid-20th century led to tantalum being adopted to produce huge numbers of electronic devices and electronic components, most notably tantalum capacitors, before being applied in chemical processes as this industry began to evolve.
Why is tantalum good for chemical processing?
Fantastic corrosion resistance
Because chemicals can cause many metals to corrode as soon as they come into contact with each other, using a metal with high corrosion resistance is essential in chemical processing. Tantalum has a natural oxide layer that acts as a protective coating, making it highly corrosion-resistant. It is the most corrosion-resistant metal in widespread use today.
Chemical inertness
Similarly to its anti-corrosion qualities, tantalum is also very inert when compared to similar metals. This means it will not react when in the presence of chemicals, which could ruin or interfere with the chemical production process.
High melting point
With a melting point of over 3000 degrees centigrade, tantalum is especially useful in high-heat situations, which is often the case in chemical processing.
Tantalum chemical processing uses
Chemical reactors
You’ll often find tantalum used in the lining of chemical reactors, helping to create a safer and more stable environment for those in the nearby vicinity. Because of this, tantalum is also commonly used in nuclear reactors, thanks to all of the above advantages, as well as its resistance to damage from nuclear radiation.
Piping systems
Piping systems that transport chemicals and other corrosive substances need to be able to withstand both corrosive elements and extremely high temperatures, making tantalum an ideal choice.
Fasteners
Along with piping systems, the fasteners that hold separate parts together within a reaction vessel – such as nuts and bolts – also need to be made from tantalum if the structure is to be maintained throughout.
Heat exchangers
During chemical production, extreme heat often needs to pass between two separate chemicals to produce the desired reactions. Tantalum’s high melting point and high thermal conductivity mean it can be used in the construction of such heat exchangers without fear of succumbing to the heat or chemicals involved.
Tantalum alloys
To enhance the durability and stability of tantalum even further for use in chemical production, it can be alloyed with other metals. Tungsten and niobium are popular refractory metal alloys when combined with tantalum, though other refractory metals are also used.
Explore tantalum metal parts with Special Metals
If your business is involved in the production of chemicals and you’re seeking specialist parts to ensure processes run smoothly and without dangerous accidents, Special Metals is here to help.
With a rich history in metal fabrication, we’ve helped clients from many different industries utilise the best tools for the job – including those made from tantalum.
If you need tantalum parts for your chemical processing – or any other processes for that matter – speak to a member of the Special Metals team today.
Give us a call on 01268 820409 or send an email to sales@special-metals.co.uk and we’ll be back in touch as soon as possible.
