Zircaloy 4 is a zirconium-based alloy renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and heat transfer properties. It is primarily used in nuclear power applications, specifically as cladding material for fuel rods in nuclear reactors..
Zircaloy 4 is highly valued for its ability to withstand the demanding conditions of nuclear reactors, including high temperatures, radiation exposure, and corrosive environments.
Zircaloy 4 demonstrates excellent resistance to corrosion in high temperature water and steam environments, making it an ideal choice for nuclear reactors. The alloy also exhibits good resistance
to general corrosion, including acids, alkalis, and saltwater. It is particularly renowned for its superior resistance to stress corrosion cracking, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of nuclear
fuel cladding.
The primary application of Zircaloy 4 is in the nuclear power industry, where it is widely used as cladding material for fuel rods in pressurized water reactors (PWRs) and boiling water reactors (BWRs). It provides a protective barrier around the nuclear fuel, preventing the release of radioactive materials and ensuring thesafety and efficiency of the reactor.
Available tube product forms
Typical Applications
Typical Manufacturing Specifications
- ASTM B353
- ASTM B352
- Also individual customer specifications
Industries predominantly using this grade
Technical Data
Mechanical Properties
| Tensile Strength |
550 MPa (80,000 psi) minimum |
| Yield Strength |
380 MPa (55,000 psi) minimum |
| Elongation |
20% minimum (in 2-inch gauge length) |
| Hardness |
HRB 80-90 (Typical) |
Physical Properties
| Density |
6.51 g/cm³ |
| Melting Range |
1852°C (3366°F) |
| Thermal Conductivity |
22.3 W/m·K (at 20°C) |
| Electrical Resistivity |
42.0 μΩ·m (at 20°C) |
| Modulus of Elasticity |
99 GPa (14.4 x 10^6 psi) |
Chemical Composition (% by weight)
|
Element |
Min |
Max |
|
Zr |
- |
98.8 |
|
Sn |
1.2
|
1.7
|
|
Fe |
-
|
0.2
|
|
Cr |
0.7
|
0.13
|
|
Ni |
-
|
0.1 |
|
O |
-
|
0.18 |
|
H |
-
|
0.005 |