Niobium: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Niobium?

Niobium products are a fascinating metal with a wide range of applications, playing a crucial role in various industries. Known for its impressive physical and chemical properties, niobium is a silver-gray metal, often used in alloys and specialized applications. But what exactly is niobium? Niobium (Nb) is a chemical element with atomic number 41, named after the Greek mythological character Niobe. It is part of the transition metals in the periodic table, and its unique properties make it highly valuable in multiple fields.

What is Niobium used for?

Niobium products are primarily used to enhance the strength and toughness of steel alloys, making it vital for construction, pipelines, and automotive components. It’s a key ingredient in superalloys for jet engines and gas turbines due to its high-temperature resistance. Additionally, niobium is used in medical devices like pacemakers, electronics such as capacitors and superconducting materials, and chemical processing equipment due to its excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility.

Niobium Pipes

Niobium Tubes

Niobium Plates

Niobium Sheets

Niobium Fittings

Niobium Flanges

Niobium Fasteners

Niobium Coils

Niobium Bars and Rods

Niobium Wires

Niobium Coiled Tubes

Niobium Schedule Chart

Schedule	Description	Notes
1	Mining and Extraction	Ore mined from deposits
2	Refining	Niobium separated and purified
3	Alloy Production	Combined with other metals
4	Product Fabrication	Formed into wires, sheets, etc.
5	Quality Testing	Ensures material standards
6	Distribution	Supplied to various industries

Mechanical Properties Chart

Property	Value
Density	8.57 g/cm³
Melting Point	2,468°C (4,474°F)
Boiling Point	4,927°C (8,901°F)
Hardness	Mohs 6
Tensile Strength	275 MPa
Yield Strength	250 MPa
Elongation	20%

Niobium Specifications Chart

Specification	Description
ASTM B393	Standard for Niobium and Niobium Alloy Bar, Rod, and Wire
ASTM B394	Standard for Niobium and Niobium Alloy Strip, Sheet, and Plate
ASTM B884	Standard for Niobium and Niobium Alloy Seamless and Welded Tubes
Purity	Minimum 99.9%
Form	Bar, Rod, Wire, Strip, Sheet, Plate, Tube
Alloy Types	NbTi, NbZr, NbHf

Niobium Chemical Composition Chart

Element	Composition (%)
Niobium (Nb)	99.8 – 99.9
Tantalum (Ta)	≤ 0.1
Titanium (Ti)	≤ 0.05
Zirconium (Zr)	≤ 0.05
Hydrogen (H)	≤ 0.001
Oxygen (O)	≤ 0.02
Nitrogen (N)	≤ 0.01

Application Chart for Niobium

Industry	Application
Steel Industry	Enhancing strength and toughness of alloys
Aerospace	Superalloys for jet engines, gas turbines
Medical	Implants, pacemakers, prosthetics
Electronics	Capacitors, superconducting materials
Chemical Processing	Corrosion-resistant equipment
Nuclear	Reactor components, radiation shielding
Automotive	High-strength automotive parts