Nichrome
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Nichrome, also known as nickel-chrome, chrome-nickel, or just NiCr, is the name given to various types of nickel-chromium alloys, widely used in resistance wires, such as heating elements.
Contents
Composition
Nichrome typically consists of 80% nickel and 20% chromium, with traces of iron and other metals. This alloy is also known as NiCrA.
Another type of nichrome, NiCrC, consists of 61% Ni, 15% Cr, 24% Fe and has a melting point of 1350 °C, slightly lower that the latter mentioned.
Properties
Nichrome is a silvery-gray metal, relative soft. The standard alloy (Ni80Cr20) has a melting point of 1400 °C and a density of 8.4 g/cm3. It has an electric resistivity of (1.0—1.5)×10−6 Ω·m at room temperature.
Nichrome resists corrosion and oxidation, mainly by forming a protective oxide layer. It is resistant to molten alkalis, however hot acids will slowly corrode it. Haloacids, like conc. hydrochloric acid will corrode it in the presence of air or if heated.
Availability
Nichrome wiring can be found in most electric heating elements. It can also be bought from some hardware stores or online.
Nichrome wiring roll can also be purchased from various electronic cigarette stores. Some rolls are 10 m long, offering a good amount of Nichrome for an accessible price.
Projects
- Heating element
- Make a tube furnace
- Source of nickel and chromium
Handling
Safety
Nichrome poses little hazard to health as it is relative inert.
Storage
Nichrome does not require special storage. Store it as you wish.
Disposal
No special disposal is required, though you can recycle it.
