Tungsten Processing

tungsten processing, preparation of the ore for use in various products.

Tungsten exhibits a body-centred cubic (bcc) crystal lattice. It has the highest melting point of all metals, 3,410° C (6,170° F), and it has high conductivity for electricity. Owing to this unique combination of properties, it is used extensively as filaments for incandescent lamps, as electric contacts, and as electron emitters for electronic devices. Tungsten also has found wide application as an alloying element for tool steels and wear-resistant alloys. Tungsten carbides are used for cutting tools and hard-facing materials owing to their hardness and resistance to wear. The metal is brittle at room temperature but ductile and strong at elevated temperatures. Its alloys are employed in rocket-engine nozzles and other aerospace applications.