Materials overview
A small addition to tungsten greatly improves electron emission. It is used as an additive in welding electrodes and electron tube filaments.
Its oxide (ThO₂) has a melting point of 3,300℃, the highest of any oxide.
A small addition to tungsten makes electron emission easier and improves arc ignition. It is used in TIG welding electrodes and filaments.
Key Property Values
These are the values engineers check first at the design stage. Actual delivery specifications follow the per-lot test report.
| Item | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Melting point | 1750 °C | Rarely used alone |
| Density g/cm³ | 11.7 | Medium-high density |
| Thermal conductivity W/m·K | 54 | Moderate |
| Thermal expansion µm/m·K | 11.0 | At room temperature |
| Form of use | Additive | Added to tungsten as ThO₂ |
| Supply grade | 1 | W-Th electrodes |
Figures are representative values. The thermal expansion coefficient is taken from published literature and needs review before release.
Key Advantages
How these figures translate into advantages in actual processes.
Improved electron emission
It lowers the work function, so the arc strikes reliably even at low voltage.
The highest-melting oxide
ThO₂ at 3,300℃. Used in ultra-high-temperature crucibles and refractories.
Longer electrode life
It wears less than a pure tungsten electrode, giving a longer replacement interval.
Supply Forms · Machining Options
| Form | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wire · Rod stock | On request |
| Sheet · Plate | On request |
| Rod · Bar | On request |
| Custom machined parts | To drawing |
Custom Machining Capability
- Cutting to drawing dimensions · CNC / MCT machining
- Wire EDM · laser machining · welded assemblies
- Forming (bending · deep drawing) and surface treatment
- The same tolerances from a single prototype to full production
