How Strong is Tungsten Compared to Steel?
Tungsten, often referred to as wolfram, is a chemical element with the symbol W and atomic number 74. It is a hard, dense, and refractory metal that has been used in various applications due to its exceptional strength and durability. When comparing tungsten to steel, it becomes evident that tungsten is significantly stronger in several aspects. This article delves into the comparison between the strength of tungsten and steel, highlighting the differences and applications of each material.
Firstly, tungsten boasts an incredibly high tensile strength, which is the ability of a material to withstand tension without breaking. Tungsten has a tensile strength of approximately 551 MPa (megapascals), making it one of the strongest metals on Earth. In contrast, steel, which is an alloy of iron and carbon, has a tensile strength ranging from 400 to 550 MPa, depending on the grade and composition. This means that tungsten is approximately 10% stronger than steel in terms of tensile strength.
Moreover, tungsten has a higher yield strength, which is the maximum stress a material can withstand without permanent deformation. The yield strength of tungsten is around 510 MPa, whereas steel’s yield strength typically ranges from 300 to 500 MPa. This indicates that tungsten can withstand higher loads before deforming compared to steel.
Another significant factor to consider is the hardness of tungsten. Tungsten has a Vickers hardness of around 850 MPa, which is much higher than the Vickers hardness of steel, which is typically between 200 and 600 MPa. This high hardness makes tungsten resistant to scratching, indentation, and wear, making it ideal for applications where these properties are crucial.
Furthermore, tungsten has an excellent thermal conductivity, which is the ability of a material to transfer heat. While steel has a thermal conductivity of approximately 50 W/m·K, tungsten has a thermal conductivity of around 170 W/m·K. This higher thermal conductivity allows tungsten to dissipate heat more efficiently, making it suitable for high-temperature applications.
Despite tungsten’s superior strength and properties, it is important to note that steel has its own advantages. Steel is more ductile, meaning it can be stretched or bent without breaking. This makes steel more versatile in terms of manufacturing and shaping. Additionally, steel is more abundant and less expensive than tungsten, making it more accessible for widespread use.
In conclusion, tungsten is significantly stronger than steel in terms of tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness. Its high thermal conductivity also makes it suitable for high-temperature applications. However, steel’s ductility and lower cost make it a more versatile material for various applications. The choice between tungsten and steel ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the application and the trade-offs between strength, cost, and other properties.
