CNC Machining Molybdenum
Material Description
Molybdenum is a refractory metal that exhibits exceptional technical properties, making it a valuable material across various industries. This chemical element, with the atomic number 42 and symbol Mo, boasts a high melting point of 2,623 degrees Celsius (4,753 degrees Fahrenheit), rendering it an ideal choice for applications involving extreme temperatures. Its exceptional thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion coefficient, and excellent resistance to corrosion and oxidation make it indispensable in the aerospace and defense sectors. Molybdenum is often utilized in the production of aircraft and missile components, as well as in the manufacturing of electrical contacts and filaments due to its outstanding electrical conductivity.
Additionally, molybdenum possesses remarkable mechanical properties. It is known for its high tensile strength and superior ductility, making it an essential component in the fabrication of structural materials for high-stress environments. In the form of molybdenum alloys, such as molybdenum-tungsten and molybdenum-rhenium, this material finds extensive application in the production of filaments for incandescent lamps, X-ray tubes, and electrical discharge machining electrodes. Its compatibility with other materials and its role as an alloying element in the creation of high-strength steel and superalloys further highlight the technical significance of molybdenum in modern engineering and manufacturing.
Grades
Molybdenum TZM Alloy
Finishing Options
Polishing
| Density | Tensile Yield Strength (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Hardness (Brinell) | Thermal Conductivity (W/m-K) | Coeff. of Thermal Expansion (mm/mdeg) | Electrical Resistivity (micro Ohm-cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10200 | 40-80 | 200-400 | 200 - 500 | ~142 | 5.3 | 53-60 |
Design Recommendation
When designing with molybdenum, it is essential to consider its exceptional high-temperature strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and good electrical and thermal conductivity. To maximize its potential, prioritize careful material selection, ensuring compatibility with the intended application’s environment. Molybdenum’s brittleness at room temperature necessitates precise machining and handling, and its vulnerability to oxidation at elevated temperatures emphasizes the importance of protective coatings or inert atmospheres. Additionally, exploit its thermal conductivity in heat sink applications, and capitalize on its ability to withstand extreme temperatures in aerospace, electronics, and high-temperature industrial settings.
Cost Saving Tip
Molybdenum is a material prone to chipping and tool wear, making tool selection and parameter optimization vital for cost-effective machining. Choose cutting tools designed for molybdenum applications, such as carbide or polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tools, which offer improved durability. Optimize cutting parameters, including cutting speed and feed rate, to minimize tool wear while ensuring precise material removal. Maintaining a controlled machining environment, including temperature control and cleanliness, is crucial to avoid contamination and reduce the need for costly rework, ultimately contributing to cost savings in molybdenum machining.
