Negative Thermal Expansion Alloys from ALLVAR are the only metals that shrink when heated and expand when cooled. This is known as negative coefficient of thermal expansion (Negative CTE). ALLVAR Alloys are a unique solution to many problems caused by thermal mismatch properties. Our products are commonly used in automotive, petroleum, optics, atmospheric and hypersonic applications.
Our alloys exhibit negative coefficient of thermal expansion, which minimize the damaging effects that extreme temperatures have on critical components over time. The Negative CTE alloys offer engineers a way to control or counter thermal expansion. This allows the instrument to maintain tight specifications over a longer period of time.
ALLVAR Alloys are the only Negative Coefficient of Thermal Expansion Metals in the World.
We offer a number of negative thermal expansion solutions, from off-the-shelf to custom designs. Thermal mismatch solutions may be as simple as changing out a washer or spacer for one made with ALLVAR Alloys. This replacement can reduce maintenance costs and extend the life of the component. Combustion engines and petroleum pump pipelines applications where cost savings can be seen through longer life and less maintenance.
Similarly, negative thermal expansion mounting rails or rods made from ALLVAR Alloys are nearly impervious to extreme temperature ranges. This means that sensitive optical instruments orbiting the earth will not lose their precise alignment over time due to repeated heating and freezing temperature cycles.
ALLVAR Alloys can also reduce the weight and size of an instrument simply by replacing a component. ALLVAR Alloys reduce thermal focal shift in IR optic lenses to lighten soldier carry weight. Replace a component in the re-entrant designed lens with a smaller one made of ALLVAR alloys. The lightweight alloy can increase tensile strength in some applications, such as in our support struts for space telescopes currently used by NASA.
ALLVAR Alloys are titanium alloys that can be machined into rods, struts or tubes and are also offered as constant force-load washers for fasteners in temperature variant environments. They are corrosion-resistant, non-magnetic and can be welded to Ti-6-4 and other ALLVAR components. Contact us today and learn more.
