Specific weight of nichrome, its properties, advantages and table of values
Nichrome is a group of alloys consisting of nickel in a proportion from 55 to 78 percent, chromium in a proportion from 15 to 23 percent and various additives such as silicon, aluminum, manganese and iron. The main purpose of this material is the creation of heating elements and resistors.
Nichrome alloy was first developed in 1905 in the United States of America by A. Marsh.
Table of the specific weight of nichrome
Since nichrome is a complex material, it is not possible to calculate its specific weight independently in field conditions. These calculations are carried out in special chemical laboratories. However, the average specific weight of nichrome is known and is in the range from 8.1 to 8.4 g/cm3.
To simplify calculations, below is a table with the values of the specific weight of nichrome, as well as such an indicator as the weight of nichrome depending on the units of calculation.
| Material | Specific weight (g/cm3) | Weight of 1 m3 (kg) |
| Nichrome | From 8.1 to 8.4 | From 8100 to 8400 |
Properties of nichrome
Due to its distinctive properties, such as high corrosion resistance, great ductility, high specific resistance and a wide range of optimal operating temperatures, it is often used in the production of heating elements.
Depending on the grade, nichrome has a specific electrical resistance from 1.05 to 1.4 Ohm*mm2/m and a density from 8200 to 8500 kg/m3. The melting temperature of nichrome is in the range from 1100 to 1400 degrees Celsius. The optimal operating temperature range is from 1100 to 1400 degrees Celsius. The specific heat capacity at 25 degrees Celsius is 450 J/(kg*K). The tensile strength is from 0.65 to 0.70 GPa.
This type of material has excellent heat resistance, ductility, creep resistance and holds its shape well.
Advantages of nichrome
Nichrome is an expensive group of alloys. In search of savings, it is often replaced by an analogue - fechral. However, the latter is not always able to fully replace nichrome, so their use often depends on the direction of work.
Nichrome has the following advantages:
- A large number of on-off cycles
- Huge ductility at temperatures above 200 degrees Celsius
- Complete resistance to rust
- Does not have magnetic properties
- High creep resistance
- Does not react with fireclay lining and iron oxides
- Low probability of sagging
Despite the fact that this material is expensive, its reliability and durability will ensure high demand for this type of alloy for a long time.
Application of nichrome
The application of nichrome is extensive, especially in areas where reliability and durability are valued most. The main areas include:
- Use of nichrome for manufacturing heating-type elements
- Use as an alloy resistant to chemical effects, as well as a heat-resistant alloy when working in aggressive environments
- Use for the production of parts resistant to high temperatures, such as rheostats and resistor elements
- Use in thermal spraying as a heat-resistant coating and underlayer
- Use in electronic cigarettes as an evaporator coil
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the density of nichrome be used for precise calculations?
The density and weight values for nichrome in this article are reference values. They are suitable for preliminary estimates, but design, construction, production and other critical calculations should be checked against standards, material datasheets or measurement results.
Why can the actual weight of nichrome differ from the table?
The actual weight of nichrome depends on composition, moisture, temperature, porosity, fraction size, material grade and measurement conditions. Because of this, real values may differ from the average table data.
How do you calculate the mass of nichrome from density?
For an approximate calculation, use the formula: mass = density × volume. If the density of nichrome is given in kg/m³ and the volume is in m³, the result will be in kilograms.