Tungsten Sheets: Sourcing, Types, and Applications for Industrial Buyers
As demand for high-performance materials grows, tungsten sheets remain a top choice for aerospace, medical, and energy sectors. This guide helps buyers navigate specifications, suppliers, and cost-effective procurement strategies.
How to Find Reliable Tungsten Sheets from China in 2025
China supplies over 80% of global tungsten products, but quality varies. Follow these steps:
- Verify supplier certifications (ISO 9001, RoHS)
- Request mill test reports for purity (99.95% minimum)
- Check production capacity (50+ metric tons/month indicates stability)
- Confirm export experience to your region
Top industrial zones like Zhuzhou and Xiamen specialize in refractory metals.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Tungsten Sheets from China
Key considerations:
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pricing | $350-$800/kg depending on thickness and purity |
| Lead Time | 4-8 weeks for custom dimensions |
| Payment Terms | 30% deposit, 70% before shipment |
| Shipping | Sea freight for bulk orders saves 60% vs air |
Types of Tungsten Sheets
Three primary variants dominate industrial use:
1. Pure Tungsten Sheets
99.95% W content, ideal for radiation shielding
2. Tungsten Alloy Sheets
W-Ni-Fe or W-Ni-Cu blends for improved machinability
3. Laminated Tungsten Sheets
Copper or molybdenum interlayers reduce brittleness
Functions and features of Tungsten Sheets
Critical properties driving adoption:
- Melting point: 3,422°C (highest of all metals)
- Density: 19.3 g/cm³ (comparable to gold)
- Radiation absorption: 50% better than lead
- Thermal conductivity: 173 W/mK at 20°C
Scenarios of Tungsten Sheets
Real-world applications:
Aerospace
Rocket nozzles withstand 3,000°C exhaust gases
Medical
X-ray collimators provide precise radiation direction
Semiconductors
Wafer carriers prevent contamination in CVD chambers
How to Choose Tungsten Sheets
Selection matrix:
| Application | Recommended Type | Thickness Range |
|---|---|---|
| Shielding | Pure W | 1-10mm |
| Thermal Management | W-Cu laminate | 0.5-3mm |
| Structural | W-Ni-Fe alloy | 5-50mm |
Tungsten Sheets Q & A
Q: How do Chinese tungsten sheet prices compare globally?
A: Typically 20-30% lower than US/EU suppliers for equivalent purity, but verify testing documentation.
Q: What's the minimum order quantity from China?
A: Most factories require 10kg for custom sizes, though some accept 5kg for standard dimensions.
Q: Can tungsten sheets be welded?
A: Yes, but requires specialized TIG welding in argon environments due to oxidation risks.
Q: How does thickness affect performance?
A: Every 1mm increase improves radiation shielding by 15% but adds ~2kg/m² weight.
Q: What surface finishes are available?
A: Options include ground (Ra 0.8μm), polished (mirror), and oxidized (for improved emissivity).
