Zirconia tubes

They are widely used in various high-temperature industrial applications, such as in furnace heaters, thermocouples, and oxygen sensors. They are preferred over other materials due to their high strength, good thermal and chemical stability, and excellent electrical conductivity. Zirconia tubes are available in two forms: partially stabilized and fully stabilized. In this article, we will explore the differences between the two and their respective benefits.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. What is zirconia?

3. Properties of zirconia

4. What are stabilized zirconia tubes?

5. Partially stabilized zirconia tubes

6. Fully stabilized zirconia tubes

7. Advantages of partially stabilized zirconia tubes

8. Advantages of fully stabilized zirconia tubes

9. Applications of partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes

10. How to choose between partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes

11. Factors affecting the selection of stabilized zirconia tubes

12. Precautions when using stabilized zirconia tubes

13. How to maintain stabilized zirconia tubes

14. Conclusion

15. FAQs

Introduction

Zirconia tubes are known for their high strength, thermal and chemical stability, and electrical conductivity. They are widely used in high-temperature industrial applications. Partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes are two different types of zirconia tubes that offer different benefits. In this article, we will discuss the differences between partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes and their respective advantages.

What is zirconia?

Zirconia (ZrO2) is a ceramic material that is widely used in various high-temperature applications. It is a white crystalline oxide of zirconium and is known for its excellent mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. Zirconia is a highly stable material that can withstand high temperatures, corrosion, and wear. It is also an excellent electrical insulator and has low thermal conductivity.

Properties of zirconia

Zirconia has several properties that make it a preferred material for high-temperature applications. Some of these properties include:

- High strength and toughness

- Good thermal and chemical stability

- High melting point

- Good wear resistance

- Excellent electrical insulating properties

- Low thermal conductivity

What are stabilized zirconia tubes?

Stabilized zirconia tubes are zirconia tubes that have been modified by adding small amounts of other materials to improve their properties. The most commonly used stabilizers are yttrium oxide (Y2O3), magnesium oxide (MgO), and calcium oxide (CaO). The addition of these stabilizers enhances the strength, thermal and chemical stability, and electrical conductivity of zirconia.

Partially stabilized zirconia tubes

Partially stabilized zirconia tubes (PSZ) are zirconia tubes that have been stabilized with a small amount of yttrium oxide (Y2O3). The yttria content in PSZ is typically between 4% and 10%. PSZ has a tetragonal crystal structure that transforms into a monoclinic structure at high temperatures. This transformation induces a volume change that increases the toughness and strength of the material.

Fully stabilized zirconia tubes

Fully stabilized zirconia tubes (FSZ) are zirconia tubes that have been stabilized with a higher amount of yttrium oxide (Y2O3), typically between 10% and 30%. FSZ has a cubic crystal structure that is stable at high temperatures. This crystal structure makes FSZ more resistant to phase transformations and improves its thermal and chemical stability.

Advantages of partially stabilized zirconia tubes

Partially stabilized zirconia tubes have several advantages over fully stabilized zirconia tubes, including:

- Higher toughness and strength

- Better resistance to thermal shock

- Lower thermal conductivity

- More cost-effective

Advantages of fully stabilized zirconia tubes

Fully stabilized zirconia tubes also have their advantages, such as:

- Higher thermal and chemical stability

- Better resistance to phase transformations

- Higher electrical conductivity

- More suitable for high-temperature applications

Applications of partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes

Partially stabilized zirconia tubes are often used in applications that require high toughness and resistance to thermal shock, such as in furnace heaters and thermocouples. Fully stabilized zirconia tubes are more suitable for high-temperature applications that require high thermal and chemical stability, such as in oxygen sensors and fuel cells.

How to choose between partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes

The choice between partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes depends on the specific requirements of the application. If high toughness and resistance to thermal shock are needed, partially stabilized zirconia tubes may be the better choice. If high thermal and chemical stability are required, fully stabilized zirconia tubes may be the more appropriate choice.

 
Factors affecting the selection of stabilized zirconia tubes

When choosing between stabilized zirconia tubes, several factors should be considered, such as the operating temperature, the environment, the required properties (e.g., thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity), and the cost.

Precautions when using stabilized zirconia tubes

Stabilized zirconia tubes should be handled with care to prevent cracking or damage. They should be stored in a dry and clean environment to avoid contamination. It is also essential to use suitable fixtures and holders to avoid stressing the tubes during heating and cooling.

How to maintain stabilized zirconia tubes

Stabilized zirconia tubes should be cleaned regularly to remove any contaminants that may affect their properties. They can be cleaned using a soft cloth and a mild detergent. It is essential to avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that may damage the surface of the tubes.

Conclusion

Partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes are two different types of zirconia tubes that offer different benefits. Partially stabilized zirconia tubes are preferred for their higher toughness and resistance to thermal shock, while fully stabilized zirconia tubes are more suitable for high-temperature applications that require high thermal and chemical stability. The choice between the two types depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as the operating temperature, the environment, and the required properties.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes?

- Partially stabilized zirconia tubes are stabilized with a small amount of yttrium oxide (Y2O3) and have higher toughness and resistance to thermal shock. Fully stabilized zirconia tubes are stabilized with a higher amount of yttrium oxide (Y2O3) and have higher thermal and chemical stability.

2. What are stabilized zirconia tubes used for?

- Stabilized zirconia tubes are used in various high-temperature applications, such as in furnace heaters, thermocouples, oxygen sensors, and fuel cells.

3. How do I choose between partially and fully stabilized zirconia tubes?

- The choice depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as the operating temperature, the environment, and the required properties.

4. How do I maintain stabilized zirconia tubes?

- Stabilized zirconia tubes should be cleaned regularly using a soft cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that may damage the surface of the tubes. Also, make sure to handle and store them properly to prevent damage.

5. Are stabilized zirconia tubes expensive?

- The cost of stabilized zirconia tubes can vary depending on the type, size, and quantity required. Partially stabilized zirconia tubes are generally more cost-effective than fully stabilized zirconia tubes.