Products & Applications

ALLVAR Alloys are the only materials in the world that have a negative coefficient of thermal expansion. Our alloys are unrivaled in their capacity to athermalize a wide range of systems, leading to improved performance, reduced lead time, and reduced costs. Keep scrolling to learn more!

Athermalization of Optics using NTE Spacers

ALLVAR has a variety of commercially off-the-shelf (COTS) and custom NTE Spacers that help maintain alignment and improve performance of optics, including: 

Ultra Stable Struts for Precision Systems


Have a metering application? ALLVAR’s Ultra-Stable Struts can solve thermalization issues in:

  • Telescopes and Reflective Systems
  • Satellites
  • Spacecraft
  • Ultra-precision systems

Constant Force Load Washers


ALLVAR offers a wide range of washers that can counteract the force and dimensional changes experienced during extreme temperature cycling. Utilize these revolutionary washers to:

  • Tackle CTE mismatch in extreme environments
  • Increase reliability of components in cryogenic systems, scientific instruments, precision machinery, and energy industries
  • Maintain constant force load in industrial seals and pre-loaded bolts
  • Solve thermal mismatch in liquid natural gas transport 

Custom Negative Thermal Expansion Products or Components

The negative thermal expansion of ALLVAR Alloy 30 can be machined into custom products or components best suited for your specific product or project. Not sure if ALLVAR is a good fit for your project? Please contact us. We would be happy to discuss negative thermal expansion Alloy 30’s applicibility for your application.

Negative Coefficient of Thermal Expansion Washers

Negative CTE washers and spacers from ALLVAR compensate for the natural expansion and contraction of other materials with variations in temperature. ALLVAR washers/spacers combat other materials’ thermal displacement to keep constant force loads – no matter if it’s 80°C or -150°C. Athermalization of fastened assemblies can be achieved by eliminating the thermal stress induced by different materials.
WASHER / SPACER STARTER KIT
Kit includes:
• 12 hours of design and engineering time from Allvar engineers
• Set of washers (quantity depends on size of washers and the application)
Washers available in #2, #4, #6, and #8 sizes. Custom washer and spacer sizes are available 

Contact us

Type B Regular Plain Washers

  • Nominal Washer Size2
  • Washer Inside Diamter: 0.094″
  • Washer Outside Diameter: 0.250″
  • Thickness Range: 0.028″ – 0.036
  • Washer Standards: ASME B18.22.1
  • ASME B18.24 Part Number: AEW26X08R000GY0A1
  • Item Number: AW30-0002
**Contact for pricing
  • Nominal Washer Size: 4
  • Washer Inside Diamter: 0.125″
  • Washer Outside Diameter: 0.375″
  • Thickness Range: 0.036″ – 0.045″
  • Washer Standards: ASME B18.22.1
  • ASME B18.24 Part Number: AEW26X11R000GY0A1
  • Item Number: AW30-0004
**Contact for pricing
  • Nominal Washer Size6
  • Washer Inside Diamter: 0.156″
  • Washer Outside Diameter: 0.438″
  • Thickness Range: 0.036″ – 0.045″
  • Washer Standards: ASME B18.22.1
  • ASME B18.24 Part Number: AEW26X13R000GY0A1
  • Item Number: AW30-0006
**Contact for pricing
  • Nominal Washer Size8
  • Washer Inside Diamter: 0.188″
  • Washer Outside Diameter: 0.500″
  • Thickness Range: 0.036″ – 0.045″
  • Washer Standards: ASME B18.22.1
  • ASME B18.24 Part Number: AEW26X16R000GY0A1
  • Item Number: AW30-0008
**Contact for pricing

To learn more and see these washers in action, please visit the ALLVAR Alloy Washer and Spacer Page

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