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:

1. Heating Elements & Industrial Furnaces

• Resistive heating wires & meshes (used in kilns, ovens, lab furnaces).
• Heat shields & baffles in high-temperature environments.

2. Filtration & Sieving in Hot Environments

• Hot gas filtration (e.g., exhaust systems, incinerators).
• Molten metal sieving (aluminum, zinc processing).

3. Automotive & Aerospace

• Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems.
• Thermal insulation in jet engines.

4. Chemical & Petrochemical Processing

• Catalyst support meshes (due to high surface area and heat resistance).
• Corrosion-resistant screens in sulfur-rich environments.

5. Laboratory & Research Equipment

• High-temperature reaction chambers.
• Thermocouple protection tubes.

6. Energy Storage:

• Current collectors for molten salt batteries
• SOFC interconnects

Types of FeCrAl/Kanthal Comparison:

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.