Nichrome wire

  [[File:File:Nichrome wire.jpg|frameless|alt=]]

Type	Alloy
Properties	|-| | Density || 8.4 g/cm³ |-| | Melting point || 1400 °C |-| | Boiling point || |-| | Thermal conductivity || |-| | Electrical resistivity || 1.10 × 10^-6 Ω·m
Uses
Discovered by	[[]]
Year discovered

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Nichrome is a metal alloy composed primarily of nickel and chromium. It is known for its high electrical resistivity and ability to withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal material for use in heating elements and other applications requiring heat resistance.

Composition and Properties

Nichrome typically consists of 80% nickel and 20% chromium, although other compositions exist depending on the specific application. The alloy is characterized by its high melting point of approximately 1400 °C and a density of 8.4 g/cm³. Its electrical resistivity is about 1.10 × 10^-6 Ω·m, which is relatively high compared to other metals, making it suitable for use in resistive heating applications.

Physical Properties

• Density: 8.4 g/cm³
• Melting Point: 1400 °C
• Electrical Resistivity: 1.10 × 10^-6 Ω·m
• Thermal Conductivity: 11.3 W/m·K

Mechanical Properties

Nichrome is known for its excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and good ductility. These properties allow it to be drawn into thin wires or formed into various shapes without breaking.

Applications

Nichrome is widely used in various applications due to its unique properties:

• Heating Elements: Nichrome wire is commonly used in toasters, hair dryers, and electric ovens due to its ability to generate heat when an electric current passes through it.
• Laboratory Equipment: It is used in laboratory settings for hot plates and kilns.
• Industrial Uses: Nichrome is used in industrial furnaces and other high-temperature applications.
• Resistance Wire: It is used in resistors and other components where precise resistance is required.

Advantages

• High Temperature Resistance: Nichrome can withstand high temperatures without oxidizing or breaking down.
• Corrosion Resistance: The chromium content provides excellent resistance to oxidation and corrosion.
• Stability: It maintains its shape and strength at high temperatures.

Disadvantages

• Cost: Nichrome is more expensive than some other materials due to its nickel content.
• Brittleness: At very high temperatures, it can become brittle and may break if not handled properly.

Also see

• Alloy
• Resistive heating
• Electric heating element
• Nickel
• Chromium