Molybdenum is a highly heat-resistant metal with a melting point of 2610°C and a boiling point of 5560°C. It can handle temperatures up to approximately 1900°C in practical applications, making it suitable for high-temperature environments such as industrial vacuum ovens and glass industry furnaces. Its thermal properties, including high thermal conductivity (142 W/m·K at 20°C) and low thermal expansion, contribute to its durability and dimensional stability under extreme heat. While molybdenum is ductile and easier to shape compared to tungsten, its lower melting point (compared to tungsten) limits its use in the most extreme high-temperature applications. For temperatures exceeding 1900°C, tungsten is a better alternative.
Key Points Explained:
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Molybdenum's Heat Resistance:
- Molybdenum can withstand temperatures up to approximately 1900°C in practical applications, making it suitable for high-temperature environments.
- Its melting point is 2610°C, and its boiling point is 5560°C, which are critical indicators of its heat resistance.
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Thermal Properties:
- Thermal Conductivity: Molybdenum has a thermal conductivity of 142 W/m·K at 20°C, which helps in efficiently dissipating heat.
- Specific Heat: Its specific heat is 0.276 kJ/kg·K at 20°C, indicating the amount of heat required to raise its temperature.
- Latent Heat of Fusion: The latent heat of fusion is 270 kJ/kg, which is the energy required to change from solid to liquid at its melting point.
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High-Temperature Applications:
- Molybdenum is widely used in industrial vacuum ovens and glass industry furnaces, where temperatures can range from 1350°C to 1600°C.
- Its high corrosion resistance and dimensional stability make it ideal for these environments.
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Comparison with Tungsten:
- While molybdenum is ductile and easier to shape and join compared to tungsten, it has a lower melting point (2610°C vs. tungsten's 3422°C).
- For applications requiring temperatures above 1900°C, tungsten is often the preferred material.
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Physical and Mechanical Properties:
- Molybdenum is silvery-white, glossy, and ductile, making it easier to work with in high-temperature manufacturing processes.
- It has high creep resistance and low thermal expansion, which are beneficial for maintaining structural integrity under heat stress.
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Alloying for Improved Properties:
- The properties of pure molybdenum can be enhanced through alloying, making it suitable for specific high-temperature applications.
- Alloyed molybdenum offers improved performance in extreme operating environments.
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Practical Use in Industry:
- Molybdenum ribbons are commonly used in applications requiring temperatures between 1350°C and 1600°C.
- Its ability to maintain dimensional stability and resist corrosion makes it a reliable choice for high-temperature industrial processes.
In summary, molybdenum is an excellent material for high-temperature applications, particularly in environments where temperatures do not exceed 1900°C. Its thermal and mechanical properties, combined with its ease of shaping and joining, make it a valuable material in industries such as glass manufacturing and vacuum oven production. For more extreme temperatures, tungsten is a better alternative.
Summary Table:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 2610°C |
| Boiling Point | 5560°C |
| Max Practical Temperature | ~1900°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 142 W/m·K at 20°C |
| Specific Heat | 0.276 kJ/kg·K at 20°C |
| Latent Heat of Fusion | 270 kJ/kg |
| Key Applications | Industrial ovens, glass furnaces |
| Comparison with Tungsten | Lower melting point, easier to shape |
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