Tungsten area refining
Tungsten area refining, also known as “partial melting refining” or “waste fusion” is a process that increases the reliability and durability of chemical bonds. It is especially used in the manufacturing of tungsten alloys and metal products. The process involves heating the coarse tungsten ore until it melts, allowing impurities to be separated from the molten material and turning the ore into an alloy.
Tungsten area refining is a form of processing tungsten ores in which the ore is heated to a point where it partially melts and the impurities, such as sulfur and carbon, can be removed from the molten material. During the heating process, the ore is crushed and then pressed together in a furnace at a temperature higher than the melting point of tungsten, usually around 1064°C or 1950°F. The molten material is then cast in two successive steps.
In the first step, the molten tungsten is allowed to cool until it reaches a solid state. The cooling is done slowly, as fast cooling can cause “cold shuts”, which create air pockets or cavities in the part that can cause it to crack or break during subsequent heating. The cooling also allows some of the impurities to float to the surface and be easily removed.
The second step of tungsten area refining involves re-heating the solidified material to the same temperature used during the first step. The additional heating serves to refine the tungsten and further remove any residual impurities, resulting in a much purer final product. The molten material is then cooled quickly, allowing it to solidify even faster than previously.
After the second step of tungsten area refining, the material can be cleaned and polished before it is ready to be used in manufacturing. The process produces a highly durable and reliable end product, which is highly resistant to wear, shock and temperature extremes. This makes it ideal for uses in a number of industries, ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and electronics.
Tungsten area refining is a complex process however, due to its high temperatures and the need for accurate cooling and heating cycles. To ensure the best results, it is important to use the proper equipment and follow the needed safety precautions. Additionally, it is important to use the correct grade of tungsten ore as the impurities can be greatly impacted by the type of ore used. Additionally, the size, shape, and composition of the ore can also affect the outcome, so it is important to consider these factors when selecting the right material for the melting process.
