Niobium Metal
Primary Niobium Uses in High-Strength Alloys
Niobium metal (Nb, also known as columbium), is a shiny, ductile, exotic metal primarily used in high-strength alloys. It improves the properties of steel for structural applications in various industries, with top niobium uses including:
Energy: Gas pipelines are a common application for niobium metal. Other very traditional niobium uses in the energy industry are in alloy form with 1% Zirconium for use in nuclear reactors. Several of the new generations of Fusion Reactors have used over 750 tons of Nb-based alloy superconducting wire for large magnets.
Aerospace & Defense: In addition to structural applications for jet engines. the growing space/launch industry is utilizing the high-temperature strength of Niobium metal alloy C-103 (Nb-Hf-Ti) for the critical application of the upper-stage rocket engine nozzle skirts and directional thrusters on many new designs.
Electronics & Chemical Processing: Because of its corrosion resistance and ability to perform at high temperatures, pure niobium metal plates, rods, and sheets are key materials in semiconductor sputtering targets and chemical processing equipment.
Other Unique Niobium Uses: Due to its chemical resistance, niobium uses include hypoallergenic applications such as body jewelry. Like titanium, adonization can also create many colors of niobium.
What you need to know about buying Niobium metal materials:
- Niobium metal has a high melting point and is resistant to most acids (except hydrofluoric).
- Can be reactive with gasses over 400°F, so it must be coated or used in protective atmospheres.
- It is resistant to molten Na, K, Ca, Bi, Pb, and Ag metals.
- Niobium is very formable and can be colored using the anodizing process.
Niobium Metal Product Selection and Purchasing Options
Formats – Niobium metal comes in several formats, which require ATSM specifications as follows (other specifications are available upon request):
- ASTM B392 for PURE ROUND products
- ASTM B393 for FLAT Niobium products
- ASTM B394 for TUBULAR products
Grades – The widely used Grades of niobium metal are as follows, with Type 2 being the most popular for pure Nb:
- R04200-Type 1—Reactor grade unalloyed niobium.
- R04210-Type 2—Commercial grade unalloyed niobium.
- R04251-Type 3—Reactor grade niobium alloy containing 1% zirconium.
- R04261-Type 4—Commercial grade niobium alloy containing 1% zirconium.
Temper/Condition – Unless otherwise noted, we will supply niobium metal material in the fully annealed condition. Other tempers, such as cold-worked or stress-relieved, can be available when required.
Tubing – Please advise if your application requires seamless or welded tubing.
Testing – Please advise of any special testing requirements as noted in your applicable specification.
Beyond niobium, Leading Edge offers a wide range of products in multiple shapes and sizes, even in small quantities. Many are available for immediate shipment from our warehouse. If we don’t have the specialty material you need, there’s a good chance we can find it. With our flexible purchasing options, you can ensure materials are available when they’re needed. Purchasing options include blanket orders, just-in-time delivery, and consignment materials.
Research Lab Industry Standards and Requirements
The research lab industry constantly evolves, driven by a growing demand for scientific and technological advancement. Successful experimentation must ensure material integrity, safety, performance, and compliance with strict environmental and operational regulations.
These standards typically focus on aspects like purity, quality, and durability to guarantee that refractory metals meet the demanding conditions of high-stakes research applications. Because research labs serve multiple industries and extreme environments, there are more than average standards and requirements on this list.
Research Lab Standards and Requirements:
- ASTM International (American Society of Mechanical Engineers): Standards for materials used in energy applications.
- SAE Aerospace Material Specifications (AMS, formerly known as the Society of Automotive Engineers or SAE)
- ASME BPVC (Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code): Guidelines for materials used in pressure vessels and reactors.
- Department of Defense (DoD) Military Standards or Military Specifications (MIL) on the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) ASSIST Database
We adhere to quality compliance certification standards and statutory regulations that pertain not only to the exotic materials we provide but also to our processes, custom machining services, traceability, and other aspects of our in-house expertise. Our materials specialists provide expert counsel on metal selection and inspection to ensure you receive materials that meet or exceed your expectations.
Leading Edge Metals & Alloys Certifications include:
- ISO9001:2015 and AS9100D Registered
- ITAR Registered
- DD2345 JCP Approval
- NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC Compliant
Our deep understanding of this industry stems from our extensive experience, skilled metallurgy professionals, and a history of successful partnerships with leading national research labs.
