Nickel-Chromium Alloys
Nickel-chromium alloys such as Nichrome (Ni80Cr20) combine high electrical resistance with excellent oxidation resistance at high temperature. They are used for heating elements, resistance wire, furnace parts and thermocouple components.
What it is
Nichrome's stable resistance and protective chromium oxide layer let it run red-hot for long periods without burning out, making it the standard heating element material. Related alloys such as Ni60Cr15 and iron-chromium-aluminium (FeCrAl) cover different temperature and cost needs.
Structural Ni-Cr alloys are also used for furnace fixtures and high-temperature hardware.
Typical applications
- Heating elements and coils
- Resistance wire and strips
- Furnace fixtures and trays
- Thermocouple sheaths
- High-temperature fasteners
Materials & grades
- Ni80Cr20 (Nichrome 80)
- Ni60Cr15
- FeCrAl (Kanthal-type)
- Incoloy and Inconel structural grades
Points to consider
- Choose alloy by operating temperature and atmosphere.
- FeCrAl handles higher temperatures but is more brittle after use.
- Element design depends on watt density and resistance required.
- Supply as wire, strip or machined parts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nichrome used for?
Heating elements and resistance wire, thanks to its high resistance and oxidation resistance at high temperature.
What temperature can Nichrome withstand?
Heating elements typically run up to about 1,150–1,200 °C depending on the alloy and conditions.
Nichrome or Kanthal?
Nichrome is more ductile and stable; FeCrAl (Kanthal-type) handles higher temperatures but becomes brittle after heating.