A Guide to Cermets
What is a Cermet?
Definition
A material consisting of processed ceramic particles bonded with metal and used in high-strength and high-temperature applications. A cermet is designed to have the optimal properties of a ceramic (such as high temperature and corrosion resistance and a high hardness rating) and metal (the ability to handle heavy loads without breaking).
Cermets are known for basic physical properties such as a high melting point, chemical stability, and especially oxidation resistance.
Industry Applications
Cermets are used in the manufacture of :
• Resistors
• Capacitors
• Electronic components that experience high temperatures
• Cutting tools
• Machine coatings
• Jet engines
• Nuclear reactor fuel elements
• Medical prostheses
History
During World War II, German scientists began using cermets as a replacement for other alloys. They were used in the development of jet engines. After the war, the United States Air Force recognized the potential of cermets due to their ductility, high strength, and high thermal conductivity. In the US, the Air Force was the principal sponsor of university studies of the technology and coined the term cermet.
At the same time the US Air Force was researching the technology, scientists from the former Soviet Union was also researching the development and application of cermets. When naturally occurring cermets were discovered during deep hole drilling, intensive research was conducted by physicists, tribologists and material scientists to replicate and improve the process. This resulted in the technology behind FriktionTek®.
Further reading on Cermets:
Wikepedia: Cermets
ExplainThatStuff.com
"Introduction to Metal-Ceramic Technology" by W. Patrick Naylor (available at Amazon)
Case Studies of our Technology by XADO
