Nickel powder, or Pure Ni Powder, is a versatile material widely used across industries due to its unique properties like excellent thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, and magnetic characteristics. But what exactly makes Pure Ni Powder so sought after? Let’s dive deep into the subject and uncover the details you’ve been looking for.
Overview of Pure Ni Powder
Nickel powder, derived from high-purity nickel, is a finely divided form of the metal, typically used in coatings, 3D printing, and alloy production. Its applications extend across sectors like aerospace, automotive, electronics, and chemical industries due to its inherent properties like:
- High thermal and electrical conductivity
- Exceptional corrosion resistance
- Magnetic behavior
- Compatibility with other materials
The manufacturing process often involves methods like atomization, reduction, or electrolysis to achieve desired powder characteristics.
Types of Pure Ni Powder
Here are some specific models of nickel powder available in the market, along with their distinct properties:
| Model Name | Type | Particle Size (µm) | Purity (%) | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ni-99.9-A | Spherical Nickel | 20-45 | 99.9 | 3D printing, coatings |
| Ni-99.8-R | Reduced Nickel Powder | 10-20 | 99.8 | Catalyst manufacturing |
| Ni-98.5-H | High-Purity Flakes | <10 | 98.5 | Battery electrodes |
| Ni-99.5-C | Carbonyl Nickel Powder | 3-5 | 99.5 | Magnetic applications |
| Ni-97.5-G | Granular Nickel | 50-100 | 97.5 | Metal injection molding (MIM) |
| Ni-99.9-N | Nano Nickel Powder | <100 nm | 99.9 | Advanced electronics |
| Ni-99.6-S | Superfine Nickel Powder | <2 | 99.6 | Thin-film applications |
| Ni-99.7-M | Micronized Nickel | 15-35 | 99.7 | Brazing materials |
| Ni-99.0-B | Black Nickel Powder | 30-50 | 99.0 | Pigments and coatings |
| Ni-95.0-T | Technical Grade Nickel | 100-200 | 95.0 | General industrial applications |
Composition of Pure Ni Powder
Pure Ni Powder typically consists of over 95% nickel, with trace impurities like iron, cobalt, and carbon. The composition directly influences the powder’s properties and suitability for specific applications.
| Element | Typical Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Nickel | 95-99.9 |
| Iron | <0.05 |
| Carbon | <0.02 |
| Cobalt | <0.01 |
The ultra-high purity variants (99.9% and above) are crucial for industries like electronics and aerospace, where even minimal contamination can affect performance.
Characteristics of Pure Ni Powder
Nickel powder’s properties make it indispensable for a variety of uses. Let’s explore its primary characteristics:
- Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: Nickel’s ability to conduct heat and electricity efficiently makes it a preferred choice for electronic components.
- Corrosion Resistance: Nickel resists oxidation and corrosion, making it ideal for harsh environments.
- Magnetic Properties: Nickel’s magnetic behavior is essential in making sensors and actuators.
- Ductility and Malleability: Nickel powder can be easily shaped, enabling its use in intricate components.
- High Density: Its density makes it suitable for applications requiring robust structural integrity.
Applications of Pure Ni Powder
Nickel powder finds applications across multiple industries:
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Aerospace | Superalloys, coatings, and additive manufacturing |
| Electronics | Conductive pastes, thin-film resistors |
| Automotive | Catalysts for emission control systems |
| Chemical Processing | Hydrogenation catalysts |
| Energy Storage | Batteries, fuel cells |
| Medical Devices | MRI shielding, implants |
| Metallurgy | Alloy production, powder metallurgy |
Specifications and Standards
When selecting Pure Ni Powder, adhering to industry standards ensures consistent quality and performance. Common specifications include:
| Specification | Range/Grade |
|---|---|
| Particle Size | 1-200 µm |
| Purity | 95-99.9% |
| Shape | Spherical, Flake, Granular |
| Standards Compliance | ASTM B330, ISO 4497 |
Suppliers and Pricing Details
Pricing for nickel powder varies depending on purity, particle size, and volume. Below are some typical options:
| Supplier | Model | Price (USD/kg) | MOQ (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Metals | Ni-99.9-A | $300 | 10 |
| PurePowder Co. | Ni-99.8-R | $250 | 5 |
| Global Nickel Supplies | Ni-98.5-H | $200 | 20 |
| Advanced Materials Ltd | Ni-99.9-N | $400 | 1 |
| Industrial Alloys Inc. | Ni-95.0-T | $150 | 50 |
Advantages and Limitations of Pure Ni Powder
Every material has its pros and cons, and Pure Ni Powder is no exception. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| High thermal and electrical conductivity | Relatively expensive |
| Excellent corrosion resistance | Potential toxicity during handling |
| Versatile applications | Limited availability for high-purity grades |
| Compatibility with other materials | High reactivity in some conditions |
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Pure Ni Powder used for? | It’s used in coatings, 3D printing, batteries, catalysts, and superalloys. |
| How is nickel powder made? | Common methods include atomization, reduction, and electrolysis. |
| What are the benefits of using high-purity nickel powder? | High purity ensures better conductivity, corrosion resistance, and strength. |
| Can nickel powder be hazardous? | Yes, improper handling can cause inhalation issues; safety precautions are essential. |
| Which industries use Pure Ni Powder the most? | Aerospace, electronics, automotive, and energy storage. |
