Niobium Metal
Primary Niobium Uses in High-Strength Alloys
Niobium metal (Nb, also known as columbium), is a shiny, ductile, exotic metal primarily used in high-strength alloys. It improves the properties of steel for structural applications in various industries, with top niobium uses including:
Energy: Gas pipelines are a common application for niobium metal. Other very traditional niobium uses in the energy industry are in alloy form with 1% Zirconium for use in nuclear reactors. Several of the new generations of Fusion Reactors have used over 750 tons of Nb-based alloy superconducting wire for large magnets.
Aerospace & Defense: In addition to structural applications for jet engines. the growing space/launch industry is utilizing the high-temperature strength of Niobium metal alloy C-103 (Nb-Hf-Ti) for the critical application of the upper-stage rocket engine nozzle skirts and directional thrusters on many new designs.
Electronics & Chemical Processing: Because of its corrosion resistance and ability to perform at high temperatures, pure niobium metal plates, rods, and sheets are key materials in semiconductor sputtering targets and chemical processing equipment.
Other Unique Niobium Uses: Due to its chemical resistance, niobium uses include hypoallergenic applications such as body jewelry. Like titanium, adonization can also create many colors of niobium.
What you need to know about buying Niobium metal materials:
- Niobium metal has a high melting point and is resistant to most acids (except hydrofluoric).
- Can be reactive with gasses over 400°F, so it must be coated or used in protective atmospheres.
- It is resistant to molten Na, K, Ca, Bi, Pb, and Ag metals.
- Niobium is very formable and can be colored using the anodizing process.
Niobium Metal Product Selection and Purchasing Options
Formats – Niobium metal comes in several formats, which require ATSM specifications as follows (other specifications are available upon request):
- ASTM B392 for PURE ROUND products
- ASTM B393 for FLAT Niobium products
- ASTM B394 for TUBULAR products
Grades – The widely used Grades of niobium metal are as follows, with Type 2 being the most popular for pure Nb:
- R04200-Type 1—Reactor grade unalloyed niobium.
- R04210-Type 2—Commercial grade unalloyed niobium.
- R04251-Type 3—Reactor grade niobium alloy containing 1% zirconium.
- R04261-Type 4—Commercial grade niobium alloy containing 1% zirconium.
Temper/Condition – Unless otherwise noted, we will supply niobium metal material in the fully annealed condition. Other tempers, such as cold-worked or stress-relieved, can be available when required.
Tubing – Please advise if your application requires seamless or welded tubing.
Testing – Please advise of any special testing requirements as noted in your applicable specification.
Beyond niobium, Leading Edge offers a wide range of products in multiple shapes and sizes, even in small quantities. Many are available for immediate shipment from our warehouse. If we don’t have the specialty material you need, there’s a good chance we can find it. With our flexible purchasing options, you can ensure materials are available when they’re needed. Purchasing options include blanket orders, just-in-time delivery, and consignment materials.
Special Commitment to Compliance and Quality
Leading Edge Metals & Alloys adheres to quality compliance certification standards and statutory regulations that pertain not only to the exotic materials we provide but also to our processes, custom machining services, and other aspects of our in-house expertise. We know the exotic and refractory metals industry, and our materials specialists provide expert counsel on metal selection and inspection to ensure you receive materials that meet or exceed your expectations.
Our team of experts has more than 100 years of combined experience in exotic and refractory metals, and we are committed to responsible, quality sourcing and use processes as well as ethical practices that benefit our customers, people, and planet.
Leading Edge Metals & Alloys Certifications include:
- ISO9001:2015 and AS9100D Registered
- ITAR Registered
- DD2345 JCP Approval
- NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC Compliant
