The disadvantages of tungsten primarily revolve around its difficulty in machining and fabrication, its brittleness at low temperatures, and its susceptibility to oxidation at high temperatures.
Difficulty in Machining and Fabrication: Tungsten, particularly in its pure form, is notoriously difficult to machine. Traditional diamond tools used for machining tungsten carbide are ineffective for pure tungsten due to a phenomenon known as "loading," where tungsten particles become compacted into the spaces between the diamonds, rendering the cutting tool ineffective. This not only complicates the manufacturing process but also increases the cost due to the need for specialized tools and techniques. Additionally, pure tungsten cannot be drawn over a mandrel or extruded into a tube, further limiting its fabrication options.
Brittleness at Low Temperatures: Tungsten has a ductile-to-brittle transition temperature that is typically higher than room temperature. This means that the material becomes very brittle and prone to cracking at low temperatures, which can be problematic for applications where tungsten components are exposed to cold environments. This brittleness can also make tungsten difficult to work with in terms of forming and shaping, as it may not withstand the mechanical stresses applied during these processes.
Susceptibility to Oxidation: Tungsten oxidizes in air at elevated temperatures, which can lead to degradation of the material. This necessitates the use of protective gas atmospheres or reducing atmospheres during welding and other high-temperature processes to prevent the material from breaking down. This requirement adds complexity and cost to the use of tungsten in high-temperature applications.
Influence of Purity and Alloying: The mechanical properties of tungsten, such as its ductility and strength, are highly influenced by its purity and the presence of alloying elements. Impurities or contamination with other materials can make tungsten even more brittle and difficult to work with. While metalworking and alloying can help reduce the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature, these processes must be carefully controlled to ensure the desired properties are achieved.
Despite these challenges, tungsten's unique properties, such as its high melting point, resistance to oxidation, and low vapor pressure, make it indispensable for certain high-temperature and high-performance applications. However, the disadvantages highlighted above must be carefully managed to ensure the successful use of tungsten in these contexts.
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