Refractory metals tensile strength

Fig. 11. Test temperature vs ultimate tensile strength for pure refractory metals (52) (---) rhenium (—...

Sihcon carbide fibers exhibit high temperature stabiUty and, therefore, find use as reinforcements in certain metal matrix composites (24). SiUcon fibers have also been considered for use with high temperature polymeric matrices, such as phenoHc resins, capable of operating at temperatures up to 300°C. Sihcon carbide fibers can be made in a number of ways, for example, by vapor deposition on carbon fibers. The fibers manufactured in this way have large diameters (up to 150 P-m), and relatively high Young s modulus and tensile strength, typically as much as 430 GPa (6.2 x 10 psi) and 3.5 GPa (507,500 psi), respectively (24,34) (see Refractory fibers). 

When rhenium is added to other refractory metals, such as molybdenum and tungsten, ductility and tensile strength are improved. These improvements persist even after heating above the rccrystallization temperature. An excellent example is the. complete, ductility shown by a molybdenum-rhenium fusion weld. Rhenium and rhenium alloys have gained some acceptance in semiconductor, thermocouple, and nuclear reactor applications. The alloys also axe used in gyroscopes, miniature rockets, electrical contacts, electronic-tube components, and thermionic converters. 

Rhenium (Re) differs from the other refractory metals (Nb, Ta, Mo and W) in that it has an hep structure, and does not form carbides. Because it does not have a ductile-to-brittle transition temperature. Re retains its ductility from subzero to high temperatures. In addition, it can be mechanically formed and shaped to some degree at room temperature. It also has a very high modulus of elasticity that, among metals, is second only to those of Ir and Os. Compared with other refractory metals. Re has superior tensile strength and creep-rupture strength over a wide temperature range. 

Tawe 144. Tensile Strength of Refractory Metal Alloys... 

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