Alloys and pseudoalloys
Tungsten heavy alloys (WHA) are manufactured by powder metallurgy in dependence on the requirements for the properties of the final product.
Tungsten is the base component, whose content lies within the range of 91 wt.% to 97 wt.%. The remaining components include nickel, iron and eventually cobalt, which are present in various proportions. Specific gravity of WHA is between 17,1 a 18,6 g/cm3 with dependance on composition.
WHA materials producted in UJP PRAHA a.s. have basic mechanical properties and microstructures as shown in table:
| Starting properties of the sintered material | ||
| hardness HV 10 yield point Rp02 ultimate tensile strength Rm ductility A5 |
290-320 > 700 MPa > 1000 MPa > 15 % |
 microstructure of sintered material |
| Properties following forming 30-40% | ||
| hardness HV 10 yield point Rp02 ultimate tensile strength Rm ductility A5 modulus of elasticity E depends on content of W |
400-600 1000 - 1400 MPa 1200 - 1700 MPa > 5 % 330 - 380 GPa |
 microstructure of formed material |
UJP PRAHA's Department of Tungsten Materials is mainly engaged in the manufacture of components for radiation shielding and for irradiators for cancer treatment. Armour-piercing subcalibre penetrators for 12.7 mm to 30 mm calibre are manufactured as well. Currently, the maximum size of sintered semifinished products is 250 mm length and 360 mm diameter (maximum weight 250 kg).
Tungsten heavy alloys supersede uranium alloys in various fields of technology. They feature good corrosion resistance, good workability, and environmental friendliness.
Their applicability encompasses various industries, such as:
- Radiation shielding, packaging for the transport of radioisotopes, collimation systems in irradiators for cancer treatment
- Penetrators capable of piercing high-strength armour
- Counterweights in the aircraft industry
- High-stiffness tool holders with low vibration levels, drilling rods
Various Tungsten penetrators