High strength and hardness, low density, excellent thermal stability and good corrosion resistance: this unique combination of properties makes silicon nitride (Si 3 N 4) the ideal material for many industrial applications, from automotive, electronics and biomedical. Research on Si 3 N 4 began over 60 years ago to support the development of all-ceramic internal combustion engines. Today’s manufacturing processes allow this material to be processed with great flexibility and a high degree of customization to meet a wide range of demands.
Why Choose Si 3 N 4?
Combining excellent mechanical, thermal and physicochemical properties, Si 3 N 4 is used both in traditional applications and in highly innovative solutions. Its lightness, its high resistance to breakage and wear, as well as its ability to withstand the most demanding environments, make Si 3 N 4 a proven alternative. The potential of Sintered Silicon Carbide is enormous, but it is far from being fully exploited.
Some Examples Of The Use Of Si 3 N 4
Silicon nitride ceramic are used in many applications such as ball bearings, metal cutting tools or automotive and aerospace components: diesel engines, turbocharger rotors, spark igniters. The Si 3 N 4 has also been adopted by even more innovative industries such as electronics and biomedical.
Due to its excellent biocompatibility, antibacterial properties and wear, and high corrosion resistance, Si 3 N 4 is thus used in orthopedic components and implant components.
Its unique electrical properties, such as its insulating properties and high dielectric strength, combined with its high thermal conductivity, thermal shock resistance and mechanical strength, make Si 3 N 4 particularly suitable for electronic components.
Medical industry
No hydrothermal aging
Because it does not suffer from hydrothermal aging, silicon nitride is not altered during repeated sterilizations in an autoclave. It is therefore perfectly suitable for any medical instrument.
Grey colour
Naturally, grey silicon nitride does not require additional colour processing, making it ideal for manufacturing components where white is not recommended.
High Weibull modulus
Statistically, the mechanical resistance remains stable between the components of the same production batch. Weibull modulus of silicon nitride is generally higher than traditional ceramic weld stud ferrules, making it safer for medical applications.
Excellent mechanical stability at high-temperature low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE)
Mechanically, weld stud ferrulesremains very stable at high temperatures. In addition, its coefficient of expansion is extremely low: its dimensions, therefore, remain unchanged over an extensive temperature range.
Watch making and jewellery
Grey colour
To avoid the plastic appearance of the white colour, ceramics are often treated with pigments when used on products with high perceived value, which can, however, weaken their mechanical properties. Naturally grey or darker in colour, silicon nitride, on the contrary, perfectly meets the aesthetic and technical requirements of the watch making and jewellery sector.
Low density
Whether for aesthetic or technical reasons within a movement, silicon nitride is an excellent choice due to its low density. It makes the case of a watch lighter and more comfortable on the wrist. It also allows the component of a movement to have less inertia, which extends the duration of the power reserve.