TZM Alloy Supply: Rods, Tubes & Custom Products

Others	O	Al	Fe	Mg	Ni	Si	N	Mo
Content (wt. %)	≤0.03	≤0.01	≤0.002	≤0.002	≤0.002	≤0.002	≤0.002	Bal.

Others

Content (wt. %)

≤0.03

≤0.01

≤0.002

Bal.

Beyond Molybdenum: Full Understanding the Superiority of TZM Alloy

In the realm of advanced materials critical to high-tech industries, TZM alloy stands out for its exceptional performance under extreme conditions. But what exactly is TZM, and why is it becoming increasingly crucial in applications ranging from aerospace to electronics? This article dives deep into the world of TZM alloy, shedding light on its composition, properties, and the pivotal role it plays in modern technology.

Chapter 1

What is TZM Alloy?

TZM alloy, short for Titanium-Zirconium-Molybdenum alloy, is a high-performance refractory metal alloy, an enhanced version of pure molybdenum, known for its exceptional properties at high temperatures. By incorporating small percentages of titanium and zirconium with a base of molybdenum, this alloy offers superior strength and resistance to high temperatures and corrosive environments.

The raw materials of TZM consist primarily of molybdenum (Mo), with about 0.5% titanium (Ti), 0.08% zirconium (Zr), and 0.02% carbon (C) added as carbide-forming elements. These additions give TZM better properties than pure molybdenum, making it a top choice for high-end engineering projects.

Element	Content (%)
Molybdenum, Mo	99.38-99.41
Titanium, Ti	0.5
Zirconium, Zr	0.08
Carbon, C	0.010-0.040

Chapter 2

Raw Materials and Preparation Methods of TZM Alloy

The raw materials used in the production of TZM alloy are high-purity molybdenum powder, titanium hydride (TiH2) powder, zirconium hydride (ZrH2) powder, and graphite powder.

Preparation Methods of TZM Alloy The preparation of TZM alloy involves several sophisticated metallurgical processes designed to ensure optimal performance in its end use. These processes include:

Powder Metallurgy:
- Blending: The initial step involves blending the powdered forms of molybdenum, titanium, zirconium, and carbon. This mixture must be thoroughly mixed to ensure uniform distribution of the alloying elements.
- Compaction: The blended powder is then compacted into a dense form, usually through pressing or sintering, which consolidates the powder into a solid mass.
- Sintering: The compacted material is heated to a temperature below its melting point but high enough to allow the particles to bond together. This step enhances the strength and integrity of the material.
Arc Melting:
- In some cases, TZM alloy may be prepared through arc melting, where the raw materials are melted together in an electric arc furnace. This process can help achieve a more homogeneous material with reduced porosity.
Forging and Rolling:
- Once sintered or melted, the TZM material is often forged or rolled to its final shape. These mechanical working steps improve the material’s mechanical properties by refining its microstructure and aligning its grains.
Heat Treatment:
- Final heat treatments may be applied to optimize the mechanical properties of the alloy. Heat treating TZM can alter its microstructure, thereby enhancing its strength and resistance to high-temperature creep.

These preparation methods are crucial for ensuring that TZM alloy delivers the expected performance in demanding applications, such as in aerospace and electronics, where standard materials might fail. The careful control of raw material quality, combined with precise manufacturing processes, defines the success of TZM alloy in critical applications.

Chapter 3

TZM Alloy Properties

TZM alloy exhibits a range of exceptional properties that make it suitable for various high-temperature applications:

Mechanical Properties

Strength: Approximately 110 ksi (760 MPa) tensile strength at room temperature, about twice that of pure molybdenum when operating at temperatures above 2000°F (1093°C). It is also with high yield strength, especially at elevated temperatures, due to the presence of fine carbide particles that act as obstacles to dislocation movement.
Ductility: TZM also exhibits good ductility at room temperature, which is important for manufacturing processes that involve forming or bending the material.
Hardness and Toughness: High hardness of around 220 DPH (Diagonal Pyramid Hardness). The hardness of TZM is significantly enhanced by the addition of titanium and zirconium, which form stable carbides within the molybdenum matrix. These carbides prevent grain growth at high temperatures, maintaining the alloy’s structural integrity and resistance to wear. High elastic modulus of 320 GPa

Thermal Properties

Melting Point: TZM has a high melting point of approximately 2,620°C, slightly higher than that of pure molybdenum. This property makes TZM ideal for use in high-temperature furnaces and other thermal processing equipment.
Thermal Expansion: The low coefficient of thermal expansion for TZM is about 5.3×10⁻⁶ K⁻¹ at 20-100°C, which is similar to that of steel. This similarity is beneficial in applications involving joint materials where differential expansion could lead to structural failure.
Thermal Conductivity: TZM’s thermal conductivity is robust, although slightly lower than that of pure molybdenum, due to the presence of alloying elements. This characteristic is crucial for applications requiring rapid heat dissipation.

Electrical Properties

Electrical Conductivity: Electrical resistivity of 5.3 – 5.5 μΩ·cm at 20°C. While TZM’s electrical conductivity is lower than that of pure molybdenum, it still retains sufficient conductivity for many electrical and electronic applications, such as components in power distribution systems where high temperature resistance is also required.
Out of these properties, TZM alloy has a few more features listed below:

Corrosion Resistance: TZM offers better resistance to oxidation than pure molybdenum at temperatures up to 400°C. Beyond this, protective measures or coatings may be required to prevent oxidation in an air environment.

Creep Resistance: One of the primary advantages of TZM over pure molybdenum is its superior creep resistance at high temperatures. This makes TZM suitable for use in components like jet engine parts and high-temperature furnace components, where materials are subject to prolonged exposure to stress and high temperatures.

These properties ensure that TZM alloy remains a material of choice for engineers and designers seeking to overcome the limitations of traditional metals in extreme environments. Whether in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing, TZM’s blend of high-temperature strength, thermal stability, and resistance to mechanical wear offers significant advantages, making it an essential component in the design of next-generation technologies.

Chapter 4

TZM Alloy VS Pure Molybdenum: The Differences

While both TZM alloy and pure molybdenum are refractory metals, there are several key differences between the two. These differences are not just in the chemical composition but extend to mechanical strength, thermal performance, and application suitability. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Composition

Pure Molybdenum: Consists almost entirely of molybdenum. It’s a great conductor of electricity and heat and has one of the highest melting points among metals.
TZM Alloy: Comprises primarily of molybdenum with about 0.5% titanium, 0.08% zirconium, and 0.02% carbon. These additional elements are crucial for improving the mechanical strength and high-temperature capabilities of the alloy.

Mechanical Properties

Strength and Ductility: Pure molybdenum has good strength and ductility at high temperatures, but TZM alloy displays superior strength, especially under high-temperature conditions. TZM maintains higher strength and hardness due to the formation of stable carbides within the grain boundaries, which inhibit grain growth and improve creep resistance.
Creep Resistance: TZM exhibits significantly better creep resistance than pure molybdenum. This is vital in applications involving prolonged exposure to high temperatures where deformation under stress could be a critical failure mode.

Thermal Properties

Melting Point: Both materials have high melting points, with pure molybdenum melting around 2623°C and TZM slightly higher due to its alloying elements, which also confer better stability at these temperatures.
Thermal Conductivity: Pure molybdenum has a higher thermal conductivity compared to TZM alloy. While this makes pure molybdenum excellent for applications needing efficient heat dissipation, TZM’s slightly lower thermal conductivity is often a suitable trade-off for its enhanced strength and stability at high temperatures.

Resistance to Oxidation

Oxidation: Pure molybdenum is relatively resistant to oxidation at temperatures below 400°C. However, TZM offers improved resistance to oxidation at slightly higher temperatures due to the presence of titanium and zirconium, which form more stable oxide layers on the surface.

Applications

Applications of Pure Molybdenum: Ideal for applications where high heat and electrical conductivity are more crucial than mechanical strength. This includes heating elements, electrical contacts, and semiconductor molds.
Applications of TZM Alloy: More suited for applications requiring superior strength, higher temperature resistance, and greater durability. This makes TZM a preferred material in aerospace components, high-temperature furnace parts, and hot-working tools.

Cost and Processing

Cost: Pure molybdenum is generally less expensive (about 25%) than TZM alloy due to the simpler processing and absence of additional costly alloying elements.

Processing: TZM can be more challenging to process than pure molybdenum due to its higher hardness and strength, which may require more advanced manufacturing techniques and tools.

Chapter 5

What is TZM Alloy Used For

TZM alloy, with its enhanced properties derived from the addition of titanium, zirconium, and carbon to its primary molybdenum base, is tailored for use in environments where high strength, excellent creep resistance, and superior thermal properties are crucial. The specialized applications of TZM alloy span various high-tech and industrial sectors, reflecting its ability to perform under extreme conditions. Here’s a detailed look at where TZM alloy is commonly used:

Aerospace and Aviation

Rocket Engine Components: TZM alloy is extensively used in the manufacture of rocket engine nozzles and other components that must withstand high thermal and mechanical stress during launch and operation. Its ability to maintain structural integrity at high temperatures is crucial for these applications.
Aircraft Parts: Parts that operate at high temperatures, such as turbine blades and exhaust ducts, benefit from TZM’s thermal resistance and strength.

Electronics and Electrical Industries

Semiconductor Production Equipment: In the semiconductor industry, TZM is used for parts such as gate valves and x-ray targets. Its high melting point and thermal stability prevent deformation under the intense heat generated during production.
Electrodes for Electric Discharge Machining (EDM): TZM’s electrical and thermal properties make it suitable for electrodes used in EDM, where materials must resist thermal shock and maintain precise geometries.

High-Temperature Industrial Applications

Furnace Components: TZM is ideal for use in high-temperature furnace parts, including heating elements, heat shields, and hot zones. Its ability to withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures without losing strength or deforming is critical in these applications.
Mold and Die Castings: For high-temperature metalworking processes such as casting and forging, TZM molds and dies offer superior durability and performance compared to other materials.

Medical Technology

Medical Device Manufacturing: The biocompatibility and robust thermal properties of TZM allow its use in manufacturing components for medical devices that require high precision and reliability.

Nuclear Energy

Nuclear Reactor Components: The excellent high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance of TZM make it suitable for components within nuclear reactors, where materials must withstand aggressive environments and high levels of radiation.

Research and Development

Experimental Research Equipment: In scientific research, particularly in materials science and engineering experiments involving high temperatures and corrosive environments, TZM is often used to fabricate crucibles, supports, and other experimental apparatus.

Coating Technology

Sputtering Targets for Thin Film Deposition: TZM’s high melting point and good thermal conductivity make it an excellent choice for sputtering targets used in the deposition of thin films, a common process in the manufacturing of electronic and optical devices.

The wide-ranging applications of TZM alloy illustrate its versatility and essential role in modern technology and industrial processes. Its enhanced material properties not only allow it to operate effectively in extreme conditions but also contribute to the advancement and reliability of technologies in sectors demanding the utmost performance. This adaptability and robustness ensure that TZM alloy remains a preferred material for engineers and designers tackling the challenges of today’s high-demand environments.

Chapter 6

MetalsTek: Your Trusted Partner for TZM Alloy Products

TZM alloy is a remarkable refractory metal alloy that combines the high-temperature strength of molybdenum with the added benefits of titanium, zirconium, and carbon. Its unique properties make it an ideal choice for various high-temperature applications, particularly in industries where performance and reliability are critical. As a leading supplier of molybdenum products, MetalsTek Engineering offers a wide range of TZM alloy products to meet the needs of researchers and manufacturers worldwide.

Physical Properties	Metric	English	Comments
Density	10.16 g/cc	0.3671 lb/in³
Mechanical Properties	Metric	English	Comments
Tensile Strength, Ultimate	83.0 MPa	12000 psi
	@Temperature 1650 °C	@Temperature 3000 °F
	490 MPa	71100 psi
	@Temperature 1095 °C	@Temperature 2003 °F
	965 MPa	140000 psi
	@Temperature 23.0 °C	@Temperature 73.4 °F
Tensile Strength, Yield	62.0 MPa	8990 psi
	@Temperature 1650 °C	@Temperature 3000 °F
	435 MPa	63100 psi
	@Temperature 1095 °C	@Temperature 2003 °F
	860 MPa	125000 psi
	@Temperature 23.0 °C	@Temperature 73.4 °F
Elongation at Break	10%	10%	in 50 mm
Rupture Strength	159 MPa	23000 psi	Stress Relief Annealed
	@Temperature 1320 °C,	@Temperature 2400 °F,
	Time 36000 sec	Time 10.0 hour
Modulus of Elasticity	325 GPa	47100 ksi	Pure Molybdenum
Thermal Properties	Metric	English	Comments
CTE, linear	4.90 µm/m-°C	2.72 µin/in-°F
	@Temperature 20.0 – 40.0 °C	@Temperature 68.0 – 104 °F
	5.90 µm/m-°C	3.28 µin/in-°F	Estimated from Pure Mo.
	@Temperature 20.0 – 250 °C	@Temperature 68.0 – 482 °F	Estimated from Pure Mo.
	6.00 µm/m-°C	3.33 µin/in-°F	Estimated from Pure Mo.
	@Temperature 20.0 – 500 °C	@Temperature 68.0 – 932 °F	Estimated from Pure Mo.
	6.10 µm/m-°C	3.39 µin/in-°F	Estimated from Mo-0.5Ti
	@Temperature 20.0 – 1000 °C	@Temperature 68.0 – 1830 °F	Estimated from Mo-0.5Ti
Specific Heat Capacity	0.250 J/g-°C	0.0598 BTU/lb-°F	Estimated from Pure Mo.
Thermal Conductivity	118 W/m-K	819 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F
Thermal Conductivity	@Temperature 500 °C	@Temperature 932 °F
Melting Point	<= 2620 °C	<= 4750 °F
Liquidus	2620 °C	4750 °F
Chemical Properties	Metric	English	Comments
Carbon, C	0.010 – 0.040 %	0.010 – 0.040 %
Hydrogen, H	<= 0.00050 %	<= 0.00050 %
Iron, Fe	<= 0.010 %	<= 0.010 %
Molybdenum, Mo	99.40%	99.40%
Nickel, Ni	<= 0.0050 %	<= 0.0050 %
Nitrogen, N	<= 0.0020 %	<= 0.0020 %
Oxygen, O	<= 0.030 %	<= 0.030 %
Silicon, Si	<= 0.0050 %	<= 0.0050 %
Titanium, Ti	0.40 – 0.55 %	0.40 – 0.55 %
Zirconium, Zr	0.060 – 0.12 %	0.060 – 0.12 %

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Beyond Molybdenum: Full Understanding the Superiority of TZM Alloy

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

What is TZM Alloy?

Chapter 2

Raw Materials and Preparation Methods of TZM Alloy

Chapter 3

TZM Alloy Properties

Chapter 4

TZM Alloy VS Pure Molybdenum: The Differences

Chapter 5

What is TZM Alloy Used For

Chapter 6

MetalsTek: Your Trusted Partner for TZM Alloy Products

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