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Tantalum Wire

MetalsTek Engineering is a trusted Supplier of capacitor-grade Tantalum Wire. We provide various capacitor-grade tantalum products, including powders and wires.

Tantalum Wire

tantalum-wire-ta-wires

Material: R05200, R05400, R05252 (Ta2.5W), R05255 (Ta10W), R05240 (Ta40Nb)

Purity: 99.9%, 99.95%

Standard: ASTM B365, ASTM F560 (Medical Grade)

Size Range: Diameter 0.1~4mm / 0.004″~0.5″

0.10mm~0.15mm, tolerance:±0.005

>0.15mm~0.30mm, tolerance: ±0.006

>0.30mm, tolerance: ±0.007

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Tantalum Wire High Purity 1 Meter /3.28 ft Length Wholesale & Retail

Description

Tantalum Wire is a type of wire made from the rare and highly dense metal tantalum. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and good thermal conductivity. Tantalum Wire can take hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen away from the atmosphere and is ideal for vacuum applications in the lighting industry. It is used in various industries and applications, including electronics, medical, aerospace, and industrial. It can also be used for electrolytic capacitors, electrodes, and rectifiers to make flakes or sewing threads. The typical purity can be 99.5% to 99.99%.

Tantalum Wire Specifications (%)

GradeR05200R05400R05255R05252R05240
C0.010.010.010.010.01
O0.0150.030.0150.0150.02
N0.010.010.010.010.01
H0.00150.00150.00150.00150.0015
Fe0.010.010.010.010.01
Mo0.020.020.020.020.02
Nb0.10.10.10.535.0–42.0
Ni0.010.010.010.010.01
Si0.0050.0050.0050.0050.005
Ti0.010.010.010.010.01
W0.050.059.0–11.02.0–3.50.05

Tantalum Wire Electrical Properties

Product ConditionTensile Strength (MPa)Elongation (%)Wire Curl
Annealed300~60010~301000
Half Annealed>600~1000<5650
Unannealed>1000<5650

Tantalum Wire Applications

Tantalum Wire is a versatile material with unique properties, making it suitable for various applications. Here are some common applications of tantalum wire:

The specific applications of tantalum wire can vary based on the diameter, purity, and other characteristics of the wire, tailored to meet the requirements of different industries.

Packaging

Our Tantalum Wire are clearly tagged and labeled externally to ensure efficient identification and quality control. Great care is taken to avoid any damage which might be caused during storage or transportation.

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Unlocking the Power of Tantalum Wire: The Ultimate Guide for Industries

Tantalum wire is a highly valued material in various industries due to its exceptional properties, including high corrosion resistance, ductility, and biocompatibility. This article provides an in-depth look at tantalum wire, covering its properties, pricing, uses, comparisons with other metals, production, purchasing considerations, and maintenance.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

What is Tantalum and How is it Special?

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Tantalum (Ta) is a transition metal with several unique and valuable properties:

  1. Physical properties:
  • Appearance: Lustrous blue-gray silvery metal
  • Density: 16.69 g/cm³, making it a very dense element
  • Melting point: Extremely high at 3,017°C
  • Boiling point: 5,458°C
  • Hardness: 90-120 Vickers
  1. Chemical properties:
  • Highly corrosion-resistant, especially at temperatures below 150°C
  • Forms a protective oxide film on its surface, contributing to its corrosion resistance
  • Resistant to chemical attack from most acids and alkalis
  • Electronegativity: 1.5 on the Pauling scale
  1. Mechanical properties:
  • High tensile strength: 170-300 MPa
  • Yield strength: 100-200 MPa
  • Ductile: Can be drawn into thin wires
  1. Electrical properties:
  • Good conductor of electricity
  • Resistivity: 1.3×10^-7 mΩ
  1. Thermal properties:
  • Excellent conductor of heat
  1. Biocompatibility:
  • Considered biocompatible and non-toxic
  • Used in medical and dental applications due to its inertness in the body
  1. Other notable properties:
  • Rare in nature
  • Often found in minerals alongside niobium
  • Can be superconductive at low temperatures

These properties make tantalum valuable for various applications, including electronics (capacitors), high-temperature applications (aircraft engines), chemical processing equipment, and medical implants. Its combination of corrosion resistance, high melting point, and ductility makes it particularly useful in challenging environments and specialized applications.

Chapter 2

Pricing of Tantalum Wire

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The price of tantalum wire can vary based on purity, dimensions, and market demand. The price for a diameter 1.0mm with 1 meter length 99.95% Tantalum wire is roughly $23. 

As of the latest data, tantalum prices are influenced by its rarity and the complexity of its extraction and processing. The global production volume of tantalum is relatively low, around 1,400 tons annually, which contributes to its high cost. 

Chapter 3

What is Tantalum Wire Used For?

Tantalum Wire in Electronics

Tantalum wire has found widespread use in the electronics industry due to its exceptional properties, making it an indispensable material in various electronic components and devices.

One of the primary applications of tantalum wire in the electronics industry is in the production of tantalum capacitors. Tantalum capacitors are known for their high capacitance, small size, and excellent reliability, making them a popular choice for a wide range of electronic devices, from smartphones and laptops to industrial equipment and aerospace systems. Tantalum wire is used to create the anode of these capacitors, taking advantage of its high electrical conductivity and ability to form a stable oxide layer.

Another significant application of tantalum wire in the electronics industry is in the manufacturing of thin-film resistors. These resistors are used in a variety of electronic circuits, including amplifiers, filters, and power supplies. Tantalum wire is an ideal material for thin-film resistors due to its high electrical resistance, low noise characteristics, and excellent thermal stability, ensuring reliable performance in various electronic applications.

Tantalum wire is also used in the production of electronic vacuum tubes, where it is employed as the filament or cathode material. The high melting point and excellent thermal stability of tantalum wire make it a suitable choice for these high-temperature applications, ensuring the reliable operation of vacuum tubes in various electronic devices and equipment.

In the field of semiconductor manufacturing, tantalum wire is utilized in the production of integrated circuits (ICs) and microprocessors. Tantalum is used as a barrier layer in these devices, preventing the diffusion of other metals and ensuring the integrity of the semiconductor structures. This application capitalizes on tantalum’s exceptional corrosion resistance and ability to form a stable oxide layer.

Additionally, tantalum wire finds use in the production of electronic connectors and terminals, where its high strength and corrosion resistance are valuable in maintaining reliable electrical connections in various electronic systems.

The versatility and unique properties of tantalum wire have made it an indispensable material in the electronics industry, contributing to the development and advancement of various electronic devices and technologies.

Tantalum Wire in the Medical Industry

Tantalum wire has found numerous applications in the medical industry, leveraging its exceptional biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties.

One of the primary applications of tantalum wire in the medical field is in the fabrication of orthopedic implants, such as artificial joints, bone plates, and screws. Tantalum’s high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance make it an ideal material for these implants, ensuring long-term stability and durability within the human body. Additionally, the biocompatibility of tantalum minimizes the risk of rejection or adverse reactions, making it a safe and reliable choice for medical implants.

Tantalum wire is also used in the production of surgical instruments and tools, such as scalpels, forceps, and clamps. The high strength and corrosion resistance of tantalum wire allow these instruments to maintain their sharp edges and withstand the rigors of repeated sterilization and use in medical procedures. Furthermore, the non-magnetic properties of tantalum make it a suitable choice for use in medical imaging equipment, such as MRI scanners, where ferromagnetic materials could interfere with the imaging process.

In the field of neurosurgery, tantalum wire is employed in the creation of aneurysm clips, which are used to occlude blood flow to an aneurysm, preventing the risk of rupture and potential bleeding. Tantalum’s biocompatibility and mechanical properties make it an ideal material for this critical application, ensuring the long-term stability and effectiveness of the aneurysm clips.

Tantalum wire is also utilized in the production of dental implants, taking advantage of its excellent biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. Tantalum dental implants provide a strong and durable foundation for the restoration of missing teeth, contributing to improved oral health and aesthetics.

Additionally, tantalum wire finds applications in the production of medical stents, which are used to maintain the patency of blood vessels or other tubular structures within the body. The corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of tantalum make it a suitable material for these implantable devices, ensuring their long-term functionality and safety.

The versatility and unique properties of tantalum wire have made it an invaluable material in the medical industry, contributing to the development of advanced medical devices and the improvement of patient outcomes.

Aerospace

Tantalum wire has found numerous applications in the aerospace industry, where its exceptional properties make it an invaluable material for various critical components and systems.

One of the primary applications of tantalum wire in the aerospace industry is in the production of rocket and missile components. Tantalum’s high melting point, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance make it an ideal material for use in rocket nozzles, thruster chambers, and other high-temperature components that are exposed to extreme environmental conditions during launch and flight. The superior strength-to-weight ratio of tantalum wire also contributes to the overall performance and efficiency of these aerospace systems.

Tantalum wire is also utilized in the manufacturing of aircraft and spacecraft structural components, such as fasteners, brackets, and other load-bearing elements. The high strength and corrosion resistance of tantalum wire ensure the reliability and longevity of these critical components, which must withstand the rigors of flight, including vibration, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to various environmental factors.

In the field of satellite and spacecraft electronics, tantalum wire is used in the production of various electronic components, including capacitors, resistors, and connectors. The exceptional electrical properties, thermal stability, and radiation resistance of tantalum wire make it a valuable material for use in these high-performance electronic systems, which must operate reliably in the harsh environment of space.

Tantalum wire is also employed in the manufacture of heat-resistant coatings and linings for aerospace applications. These coatings, applied to the surfaces of aircraft and spacecraft components, help protect against the intense heat and thermal stresses encountered during flight, contributing to the overall safety and performance of the aerospace systems.

Additionally, tantalum wire finds use in the production of specialty tools and equipment used in the maintenance and repair of aircraft and spacecraft. The high strength and corrosion resistance of tantalum wire ensure the durability and longevity of these critical tools, which must withstand the rigors of the aerospace industry.

The unique properties and versatility of tantalum wire have made it an indispensable material in the aerospace industry, contributing to the development of advanced aerospace technologies and the overall safety and performance of aircraft and spacecraft.

Chemical Industry

Tantalum’s corrosion resistance makes it suitable for use in the chemical industry. It is used as a lining material for reaction vessels, heat exchangers, and pumps. Tantalum alloys, containing 2.5–10% tungsten, are often preferred for their enhanced stability and ductility.

Other Applications

Tantalum wire is also used in the production of superalloys for turbines and aircraft engines, laboratory equipment, and electron tube cathodes. Its getter effect, the ability to absorb gases, ensures high vacuum conditions in these applications.

Chapter 4

What Makes Tantalum Wire Different? Comparison with Other Metals

Tantalum VS. Titanium

Both tantalum and titanium have unique properties that make them suitable for various applications. Tantalum excels in corrosion resistance and biocompatibility but comes at a higher cost and weight. Titanium, on the other hand, offers a lighter, more affordable option with excellent strength and corrosion resistance, making it versatile for a wide range of uses.

Strength and Durability

  • Tantalum: Known for its excellent scratch resistance and durability. It can withstand significant wear and tear.
  • Titanium: Also very strong and durable, with a high strength-to-weight ratio. It is less dense than tantalum but still offers substantial durability.

Density and Weight

  • Tantalum: Significantly denser, resulting in a heavier feel.
  • Titanium: Much lighter, which can be advantageous in applications where weight is a concern.

Corrosion Resistance

  • Tantalum: Exhibits superior corrosion resistance, particularly in acidic environments. It forms a stable oxide layer that protects it from chemical attack.
  • Titanium: Also highly resistant to corrosion, especially in seawater and chlorine environments. It forms a protective oxide layer as well, though it is generally less resistant than tantalum in extremely acidic conditions.

Biocompatibility

  • Tantalum: Highly biocompatible and non-toxic, making it suitable for medical implants and devices.
  • Titanium: Equally biocompatible and widely used in medical and dental implants due to its non-reactive nature with body tissues.

Color and Appearance

  • Tantalum: Typically has a darker, blue-gray appearance, which can be aesthetically appealing in jewelry and other applications.
  • Titanium: Generally lighter in color, with a silver-gray appearance. It can also be anodized to produce various colors.

Cost

  • Tantalum: Generally more expensive due to its rarity and the complexity of its extraction and processing.
  • Titanium: More affordable and widely available, making it a cost-effective option for many applications.

Mechanical Properties

  • Tantalum: Offers excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and ductility. It can be drawn into thin wires and other forms without breaking.
  • Titanium: Known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and good mechanical properties. It is less dense but still offers substantial strength.

Availability and Design Options

  • Tantalum: Less widely available and typically offers fewer design options, especially in consumer products like jewelry.
  • Titanium: More widely available with a broader range of design options, particularly in the jewelry market.

Resizing and Customization

  • Tantalum: Generally more challenging to resize due to its hardness, but it can be customized for specific applications.
  • Titanium: Difficult to resize, especially in the case of rings, but offers a wide range of customization options.

Applications

  • Tantalum: Used in high-performance electronics, medical implants, chemical processing equipment, and aerospace components due to its exceptional properties.
  • Titanium: Widely used in aerospace, medical implants, sports equipment, and jewelry due to its favorable strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and affordability.

Tantalum VS Niobium

Similarities:

  • Both are transition metals with high melting points
  • Excellent corrosion resistance, especially in acidic environments
  • Good thermal and electrical conductivity
  • Often used in steels and superalloys
  • Both utilized in capacitor manufacturing

Key Differences:

  1. Density and Hardness:
    • Tantalum is denser and slightly harder than niobium
  2. Melting Points:
    • Tantalum has a higher melting point
  3. Availability and Cost:
    • Tantalum is rarer and more expensive
    • Niobium is more abundant with a more stable supply chain
  4. Electrical Properties:
    • Niobium oxide has a higher dielectric constant
    • Tantalum performs better at higher temperatures and voltages
  5. Specific Applications:
    • Tantalum excels in high-temperature and high-reliability uses
    • Niobium is preferred in some lower-cost applications
  6. Safety:
    • Niobium oxide has higher ignition resistance

In essence, while similar, tantalum and niobium have distinct advantages in different applications based on their unique properties, availability, and cost factors.

Tantalum VS Molybdenum

While both metals have high melting points and good conductivity, tantalum generally offers superior corrosion resistance and ease of fabrication, while molybdenum may have advantages in terms of availability and resistance to oxygen embrittlement in certain alloy forms.

  1. Melting Point:
    Tantalum has a higher melting point (3,017°C) compared to molybdenum.
  2. Density:
    Tantalum is denser than molybdenum, with a density of 16.69 g/cm³.
  3. Hardness:
    Tantalum has a Mohs hardness of 6.5, which is relatively high but lower than molybdenum.
  4. Corrosion Resistance:
    Tantalum is highly resistant to corrosion, even in acidic environments at room temperature. It’s resistant to all acids except hydrofluoric acid.
  5. Conductivity:
    Both tantalum and molybdenum are good conductors of heat and electricity.
  6. Fabrication:
    Tantalum can be easily fabricated into various forms.
  7. Availability:
    Molybdenum is more readily available and exported by the United States, while tantalum is primarily imported.
  8. Alloys:
    Both metals are used in alloys to improve strength and corrosion resistance in steels and superalloys.
  9. High-Temperature Applications:
    Both are refractory metals, suitable for high-temperature applications. However, tantalum alloys like ASTAR-811C show excellent high-temperature strength.
  10. Oxygen Embrittlement:
    Molybdenum alloys (e.g., Mo-47.5%Re) show better resistance to oxygen embrittlement compared to tantalum alloys.
  11. Fabrication Experience:
    Complete loops have been fabricated from tantalum alloys, while this level of fabrication experience is not mentioned for molybdenum alloys.

Chapter 5

Considerations When Purchasing Tantalum Wire

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When purchasing tantalum wire, consider the following factors:

  • Purity: Higher purity levels ensure better performance in sensitive applications.
  • Dimensions: The wire’s diameter and length should match the specific requirements of the application.
  • Condition: Annealed wire is more ductile, while unannealed wire offers higher tensile strength.
  • Supplier: Choose reputable suppliers to ensure the quality and consistency of the material.

Chapter 6

Precautions and handling of tantalum wire

Handling and working with tantalum wire requires special precautions due to the unique properties and characteristics of this material. Proper handling and safety measures are essential to ensure the safe and effective use of tantalum wire in various applications.

One of the primary considerations when handling tantalum wire is its high density and weight. Tantalum is approximately 2.5 times denser than steel, making the wire relatively heavy and susceptible to causing injuries if not handled with care. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety glasses, should be worn when handling tantalum wire to prevent cuts, abrasions, or other physical injuries.

Tantalum wire is also highly resistant to corrosion, which can make it challenging to work with using standard metalworking tools and techniques. Special cutting, bending, and shaping tools designed for use with tantalum may be required to ensure the safe and effective processing of the material. Improper handling or the use of unsuitable tools can lead to the creation of sharp edges or burrs, increasing the risk of injury.

Another important consideration when handling tantalum wire is its potential for static electricity buildup. Tantalum is known to be a good conductor of electricity, which can lead to the accumulation of static charge, particularly in low-humidity environments. This static electricity buildup can pose a risk of sparks or electric shocks, which can be hazardous in certain applications, such as in the presence of flammable materials. Proper grounding and the use of anti-static equipment can help mitigate this risk.

In addition to the physical handling precautions, it is essential to consider the potential health and environmental impacts of tantalum wire. Tantalum dust or fumes generated during processing can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested, and appropriate dust control and ventilation measures should be implemented to protect workers. Proper disposal of tantalum waste, in accordance with local regulations, is also crucial to minimize the environmental impact.

By following the appropriate safety protocols and handling procedures, users can safely and effectively work with tantalum wire, harnessing its unique properties to meet the demands of various industries and applications.

Chapter 7

MetalsTek: Your Trusted Partner for Tantalum Wire

MetalsTek stands out for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. By partnering with MetalsTek, you gain access to:

  • High-Quality Products: Sourced from leading manufacturers like Admat Inc. and Stanford Advanced Materials.
  • Expertise: Extensive knowledge and experience in handling and supplying tantalum wire.
  • Customer Support: Dedicated support to help you select the right product for your application.

For more information or to place an order, feel free to Contact Us

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