The key applications of TZM plates in the glass manufacturing industry
TZM plates (molybdenum-titanium-zirconium alloy) are widely used in multiple key links of the glass manufacturing industry due to their excellent high-temperature performance and corrosion resistance.
In high-temperature furnaces, the melting point of TZM plates can reach as high as 2620°C, and their strength at high temperatures is significantly better than that of pure molybdenum. Therefore, they are often used as the inner lining of the furnace chamber, electrode sheaths or resistance heating elements in glass furnaces. For instance, during the high-temperature melting process of liquid crystal glass substrates (LCD/OLED) (1600-1800°C), TZM plates can resist the erosion of molten glass and extend the service life of the furnace body. In addition, the creep resistance of TZM plates (they are not prone to deformation at high temperatures) ensures that the furnace maintains structural stability during long-term operation and avoids uneven temperature distribution caused by material deformation.
Application in glass forming molds and tools
In the glass forming process, TZM plates are processed into precision forming molds for the forming of float glass or optical glass. Its low coefficient of thermal expansion (4.8×10⁻⁶/°C) can reduce the thermal stress between the mold and the glass and prevent surface defects of the glass. In addition, in the float glass production line, the edge pullers (used to control the width of the glass belt) and transition roller tables (used to transfer high-temperature glass belts) made of TZM plates can withstand the corrosion of the glass liquid and mechanical wear, ensuring the stability of the production process and the high quality of the glass products.
Application in Special glass processing equipment
In special glass processing, TZM plates also play an important role. In high-energy laser melting glass equipment, TZM plates are used to manufacture mirror brackets or focusing devices to ensure the stability of the optical system at high temperatures. In the production process of glass fiber, TZM plates serve as the supporting structure for platinum-rhodium alloy drain plates, preventing the platinum alloy from softening and deforming at high temperatures (above 1300°C). In addition, in high-temperature environments containing corrosive gases such as fluorine and sulfur (such as in the photovoltaic glass coating process), TZM panels can be used as the inner lining or baffle of the reaction chamber to resist gas corrosion and prevent glass contamination.
Anti-corrosion and composite applications
Although TZM plates are prone to oxidation at high temperatures in the air, the rate at which a dense oxide film forms on their surface is relatively slow in nitrogen, argon or vacuum environments. Therefore, they can be used in closed glass smelting systems that require long-term stable operation. In addition, the performance of TZM boards can be further enhanced by compounding with other materials or by coating reinforcement. For instance, in extreme temperature difference scenarios (such as glass quenching equipment), TZM plates are used in combination with materials like copper and graphite to balance thermal conductivity and thermal shock resistance. The service life of TZM plates in oxidizing atmospheres can also be significantly enhanced by surface coating with silicides (such as MoSi₂) or ceramic coatings (such as Al2O3).
Mosten Alloy can produce TZM alloys sheet, TZM alloys block, TZM alloys foil, TZM alloys rod, TZM alloys wire, TZM alloys processing workpiece according to customer demand.
