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Energy Materials
An Introduction
The energy industry is a true test of material properties. The breadth of geographical locations, environments, structural demands, temperatures and contact with corrosive elements are unparalleled. As new ways of producing energy come to the fore and efficiencies are being found in existing technologies, new materials are being integrated and new applications are being found for the incumbents.
Key material considerations for the energy industries are: strength - structural strength for hydroelectric dams, electricity pylons, wind turbines et al, tensile strength for overhead powerlines and compessive strength for pressure vessels; electrical conductivity for power lines; corrosion resistance for attacks from the elements, marine environments and acids; and Temperature range, from sub zero cryogenics in nuclear cooling, to 1000s of degrees celsius.
The materials and applications on this page are listed solely as a guide and do not reflect the limit of our supply, or the uses of said materials. If you have a specific application for which you need particular materials, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Aluminium
Pros
+ 61% conductivity of Copper, yet half the weight
+ Reduction in weight allows longer spans between pylons for overhead powerlines
+ High corrosion resistance - suitable for exposure to the elements and offshore applications
+ Easily shaped into wire and complex shapes for connectors
+ Low coefficient of thermal expansion
+ Easy to bend without cracking
+ Readily recycled at end of useful life
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Cons
Aluminium in Energy
Nickel
Pros
+ Excellent corrosion resistance
+ High strength
+ Great creep strength
+ A very useful alloy in Stainless Steels
+ Resistant to high temperatures
+ Straightforward to join and shape
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Cons
Nickel in Energy
Steel
Pros
+ High strength
+ Readily formed into complex shapes
+ High corrosion resistance in Stainless Steels
+ Good high temperature characteristics
+ Broad range of alloys to meet possible requirements
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Cons
Steel in Energy
Titanium
Pros
+ Very high strength
+ Superior corrosion resistance
+ Excellent creep strength
+ Readily joined and formed into complex shapes
+ High capacity for resisting internal and external pressures
+ Long life cycle with minimal maintenance required
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Cons
Titanium in Energy
Pros
+ Very lightweight
+ Low coefficient of thermal expansion
+ High strength
+ Resistant to high temperatures with the right polymers
+ Excellent corrosion resistance
+ Easy to form and shape into complex shapes
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Cons
Carbon Fibre in Energy
Carbon Fibre
Aramids
Pros
+ Very lightweight allowing less loading on powerlines when used as insulator
+ Readily formed into complex shapes
+ High corrosion resistance to the elements and acids
+ Excellent resistance to heat and electrical currents
+ Superior containment of high pressures. Ideal for use in hoses/umbilicals
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Cons
Aramids in Energy
Integ Metals // Industries // Energy
