Kanthal/FeCrAl Mesh
FeCrAl Mesh/Kanthal Mesh are heat-resistant, oxidation-resistant, and has high durability in high-temperature applications. They are known for forming a protective alumina (Al₂O₃) scale when heated, which prevents further oxidation. They are widely used in heating equipment, industrial furnaces, and filtration systems where cost-effective heat resistance is required.
Key Properties of FeCrAl/Kanthal Mesh:
- High-Temperature Resistance (Up to 1,400°C / 2,552°F)
- Forms a protective aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) layer when heated, preventing further oxidation.
- More oxidation-resistant than Nichrome (NiCr) alloys.
- Good Mechanical Strength at High Temperatures
- Retains structural integrity better than stainless steel at elevated temps.
- Cost-Effective Alternative to Refractory Metals
- Cheaper than Mo, W, or Ta meshesfor moderate-temperature applications.
- Resistance to Sulfur & Carbon Attacks
- Performs well in reducing atmospheres (e.g., hydrocarbon processing).
Common Applications of FeCrAl/Kanthal Mesh:
- Heating Elements & Industrial Furnaces
- Resistive heating wires & meshes (used in kilns, ovens, lab furnaces).
- Heat shields & baffles in high-temperature environments.
- Filtration & Sieving in Hot Environments
- Hot gas filtration (e.g., exhaust systems, incinerators).
- Molten metal sieving (aluminum, zinc processing).
- Automotive & Aerospace
- Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems.
- Thermal insulation in jet engines.
- Chemical & Petrochemical Processing
- Catalyst support meshes (due to high surface area and heat resistance).
- Corrosion-resistant screens in sulfur-rich environments.
- Laboratory & Research Equipment
- High-temperature reaction chambers.
- Thermocouple protection tubes.
- Energy Storage:
- Current collectors for molten salt batteries
- SOFC interconnects
Types of FeCrAl/Kanthal Comparison:
Parameter |
0Cr25Al5 |
0Cr23Al5 |
0Cr21Al6Nb |
Kanthal A1 |
Kanthal AF |
Kanthal D |
Nominal Composition |
Fe-25Cr-5Al |
Fe-23Cr-5Al |
Fe-21Cr-6Al |
Fe-22Cr-5.8Al |
Fe-22Cr-5.3Al-Y |
Fe-22Cr-4.8Al |
Max Service Temp (Air) |
1250°C |
1250°C |
1300°C |
1400°C |
1300°C |
1300°C |
Room Temp Tensile |
800 MPa |
830 MPa |
750MPa |
780 MPa |
800 MPa |
700 MPa |
Advantages of FeCrAl/Kanthal Mesh:
✔ Best oxidation resistance in air for cost-effective heating.
✔ Cheaper than Mo/W while still handling extreme heat.
✔ Easy to form into wires, meshes, and complex shapes.
Disadvantages:
❌ Not as refractory as Mo/W (limited to ~1,400°C max).
❌ Brittle after prolonged heating (can become fragile).
❌ Lower strength compared to tungsten/molybdenum.