User:Tenskyceramics
Application Of Silicon Nitride Ceramics
Silicon nitride ceramics are a highly advanced form of ceramics that are usually dark grey or black in color and have a covalently bonded nature. These ceramics are known for their exceptional strength, toughness, and robustness. The shock-resistant property of the BN machinable boron nitride ceramic ceramic makes them superior to others. The silicon nitride ceramics also maintain good thermal and chemical stability. These extraordinary attributes of these ceramics make them apt for a number of applications, some of which are discussed below
Automotive Sectors
Most applications of Silicon nitride ceramics are usually found in the automotive sectors. They are commonly used in different wear and combustion components of reciprocating engines. These ceramics are also found in the glow plugs of diesel engines as they help with a quicker start-up time. They also reduce emissions in the precombustion chambers or act as a muffler. Furthermore, they can also reduce engine lags of the turbochargers. Other applications of silicon nitride ceramics in the automotive industries include precision shafts, tappet shims, and cam followers.
Bearings
When it comes to the bearings, the Silicon nitride ceramic bearings are always preferred over the steel bearings, especially for high-temperature applications. The silicon nitride ceramic ball and roller bearings are corrosion-resistant, which also makes them long-lasting. They work quite efficiently, even at higher speeds. The rigidity of these bearings helps in creating less vibration and smooth motion.
Metalworking
Because of the high strength, fracture toughness, sturdiness, and thermal shock resistance of the silicon nitride are used in metal cutting implements for hard steel, cast iron, and nickel-based alloys
Industrial Applications
Silicon nitride ceramics are also good in dealing with molten metal, whereas other metallic parts are mostly unsuitable. The aluminum casting industry used these ceramics because of their thermal conductivity and great corrosion resistance. Moreover, they are also used by turbine rotor pipes for rockets, spray nozzles, weld jigs/positioners, etc., due to their high strength.