Kanthal
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Kanthal is an alloy of mainly iron, chromium (20–30 %) and aluminium (4–7.5 %). Kanthal was developed by Hans von Kantzow in Hallstahammar, Sweden. Its name is derived from Kantzow and Hallstahammar. The alloy is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures and having intermediate electric resistance. As such, it is frequently used in heating elements.
For heating, resistance wire must be stable in air when hot. Kanthal wire forms a protective layer of aluminum oxide (alumina). [1] Aluminium oxide is an electrical insulator but has a relatively high thermal conductivity; special techniques may be required to make good electrical connections.
Ordinary Kanthal has a melting point of 1,200 °C (2,190 °F). Special grades have a melting point as high as 1,425 °C (2,597 °F).[2]
Kanthal is the name not only of the alloy, but also of the company manufacturing it. AB Kanthal was founded in 1931 and is now a part of the Sandvik group.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ http://www.sci-ed-ga.org/modules/materialscience/light/pdf/section_13.pdf Advanced Topic: Oxidation Resistant Materials
- ^ Uemori, Susumu & Takashi Aitani, "Electric heater for a semiconductor processing apparatus", US 7027722, issued 2006-04-11
[edit] External links
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