Silicon Carbide (SiC) has properties that are strikingly similar to diamond: it is one of the lightest, hardest, and strongest technical ceramic materials, with excellent thermal conductivity, acid resistance, and low thermal expansion. Silicon Carbide is an excellent material to use when physical wear is a concern, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Wintrustek produces Silicon Carbide ceramics using two methods: reaction bonding and sintering.
Reaction bonded SiC (RBSiC or SiSiC) is formed by mixing liquid silicon with penetrating compacts of SiC and carbon. The silicon reacts with the carbon, producing more SiC and binding the original SiC particles together.
Sintered SiC (SSiC) is made from pure SiC powder and non-oxide sintering aids. The material is sintered in an inert atmosphere at temperatures of up to 2000 °C or higher using standard ceramic forming techniques.
Silicon Carbide (SiC) in both forms is highly wear resistant and has excellent mechanical properties.
Typical Properties
Exceptionally high hardness
Abrasion resistant
Corrosion resistant
Low Density
Very high thermal conductivity
Low coefficient of thermal expansion
Chemical and thermal stability
Excellent thermal shock resistance
High Young's modulus
Typical Applications
Blasting nozzle
Heat exchanger
Mechanical seal
Plunger
Semiconductor processing
Kiln furniture
Grinding balls