Reviewed · 2026-08-13
Refractory Metals
Tungsten, molybdenum, tantalum and niobium retain useful properties in demanding thermal, vacuum, chemical or electronic service, but oxygen contamination, recrystallization, joining and product route control their practical use.
Classification basis
Base element, product route, recrystallization state, atmosphere and service mechanism
Four element-led procurement pages separate very different density, corrosion, ductility and high-temperature design constraints.
A familiar grade name never replaces the governing product specification and certified documentation.01
Explore subcategories
Tungsten Alloys
Includes pure tungsten, W-Re and tungsten heavy alloys; excludes WC-Co hardmetals.
→Refractory metalsMolybdenum Alloys
Includes pure Mo, TZM and Mo-La; excludes molybdenum-bearing steel and nickel alloys.
→Refractory metalsTantalum Alloys
Includes pure tantalum and Ta-W mill products; excludes tantalum coatings unless their deposit specification is explicit.
→Refractory metalsNiobium Alloys
Includes pure Nb and niobium-base alloys; excludes low-level niobium additions in HSLA steel and nickel superalloys.
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Representative grades and systems
| Grade / system | Use as a selection entry point |
|---|---|
| Pure W | Select element from service mechanism, not melting point alone. |
| TZM | Specify recrystallized or stress-relieved condition. |
| Ta-2.5W | Qualify joining and atmosphere through the complete duty cycle. |
| C-103 | Select element from service mechanism, not melting point alone. |
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Property framework
High melting temperature
Temperature-dependent ductility
Strong sensitivity to atmosphere and fabrication history
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Common product forms
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Applications
- Furnace hardware
- Chemical equipment
- Aerospace, electronics and radiation systems
- Select element from service mechanism, not melting point alone.
- Specify recrystallized or stress-relieved condition.
- Qualify joining and atmosphere through the complete duty cycle.
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Standards and designation systems
ASTM B10 refractory product specifications
Form-specific chemistry and dimensions
Qualified fabrication and inspection plan
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Procurement checklist
- State element/alloy and exact product form.
- Define condition, grain structure and impurity limits.
- Specify surface, NDT, tests and traceability.
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