Tungsten alloy blocks are functional materials made by using tungsten as the base material, with the addition of metals such as nickel, iron, copper, or cobalt, processed through powder metallurgy techniques (including mixing, pressing, and sintering) into solid blocks. They are widely used across industrial, medical, and research fields.
Tungsten alloy blocks have a high density: pure tungsten has a density of approximately 19.3 g/cm3, while tungsten alloy blocks typically range from 16.5 to 18.75 g/cm3, far exceeding that of common metals like lead and iron. This property enables efficient absorption and shielding of radiation (e.g., gamma rays and X-rays) and allows for significant weight in a small volume in counterweight applications, reducing space usage.
Tungsten alloy blocks exhibit excellent mechanical properties: compared to the more brittle pure tungsten, the addition of other metal elements enhances their toughness and processability, allowing for machining processes such as cutting, grinding, and welding to create components of complex shapes.
Tungsten alloy blocks offer good high-temperature resistance and chemical stability: with a high melting point, they maintain structural integrity in environments above 1,000°C and are resistant to corrosion from acids, alkalis, and other chemical substances, making them suitable for long-term use in high-temperature and harsh conditions.
Unlike traditional lead alloys, tungsten alloy blocks are free of toxic elements like lead, and they do not release harmful substances due to wear or corrosion, making them more environmentally friendly and aligned with modern industrial environmental requirements.
Leveraging their high density and superior radiation shielding capabilities, tungsten alloy blocks are widely used in medical and nuclear industry settings. For instance, in tumor radiotherapy equipment, they can be fabricated into protective plates to block high-energy rays, safeguarding medical staff and patients. Due to their small size, significant weight, and ease of processing, they are an ideal choice for counterweights in precision equipment. In the aerospace sector, they are used for center-of-gravity adjustments in aircraft and satellites; in the automotive industry, they serve as balance weights in race cars to enhance driving stability.
