What is the difference between reaction bonded and sintered silicon carbide?

When it comes to silicon carbide ceramics, there are two main types: reaction bonded silicon carbide and sintered silicon carbide. While both types of ceramics offer high levels of durability and wear resistance, there are some key differences between the two.

Let’s start with reaction bonded silicon carbide ceramics. These ceramics are between 85% and 90% silicon carbide and contain some silicon. Their maximum temperature resistance is 1380°C. One of the main advantages of reaction-bonded silicon carbide ceramics is that they can be tailored to large sizes and shapes. This makes them ideal materials for creating unique and professional products. Additionally, the low coefficient of expansion and excellent wear resistance of these ceramics make them a popular choice in the mining cyclone industry.

The pressureless sintered silicon carbide has a higher content of silicon carbide, which can reach more than 99%, and the highest temperature resistance is 1650°C. A certain coefficient of expansion is introduced during the sintering process, which makes pressureless sintered SiC ideal for manufacturing precision SiC parts. Due to its high precision, pressureless sintered silicon carbide is often used to make molds and wear-resistant precision parts.

In addition to precision molds and wear parts, high-end kiln equipment for the chemical industry can take advantage of the superior temperature resistance of pressureless sintered silicon carbide. For those looking for efficient heat exchanger tubes for their chemical processing equipment, pressureless sintered silicon carbide is definitely a viable material choice.

In general, reaction bonding and pressureless sintering of SiC ceramics, although each has its advantages and disadvantages, are suitable for different industries and applications. If you need a unique or larger size product that can withstand wear, reaction bonded silicon carbide ceramics may be the right choice for you. For more delicate parts that need to withstand high temperatures, pressureless sintered silicon carbide may be a better choice. No matter which type of silicon carbide ceramic you choose, you can be confident it will provide the durability and sustainability your project requires.