Electrical resistance: precision alloys with high resistivity

Electrical resistivity (denoted by the symbol ρ) is a physical characteristic describing a material’s ability to resist the flow of electric current. It is usually measured in ohm·metre. It depends on alloy chemical composition, structure, temperature, and other properties. Precision alloys with high electrical resistivity have good insulating qualities, while materials with low resistivity are excellent conductors.

Electrical conductivity and its relation to electrical resistivity

A material’s electrical conductivity (measured in siemens per metre) is a physical quantity characterizing the ability to conduct electric current. It is inversely proportional to electrical resistivity. That is, the higher the conductivity, the better the material conducts current, and vice versa.

Factors affecting electrical resistivity

A material’s ability to conduct electric current depends on a number of factors, the main ones being:

• Material purity. Impurities, defects, and other flaws in an alloy can raise its electrical resistivity. In most cases, the purer the material, the lower its resistivity.
• Working temperature of the material. As a rule, as temperature rises alloy resistivity increases due to more collisions between atoms and electrons.
• Chemical composition. The chemical elements in the alloy determine the number of free electrons in the material: the more of them, the easier electric current flows. Thanks to free electrons, metals often have low electrical resistivity.
• Crystal lattice and alloy structure. Defects in the material’s crystals can increase its electrical resistivity.

Precision alloys with elevated resistivity have high parameter stability and can be used in various electrical devices where precise control of electric current is required. They are widely used as heating elements in industrial installations and other specialized devices.

High electrical resistance alloys produced by PZPS

Petersburg Plant of Precision Alloys produces a range of materials with high electrical resistivity. Among them:

• fechral grades Kh15Yu5, Kh23Yu5, Kh23Yu5T;
• nichrome grades Kh20N80N, Kh15N60N.

In addition, the PZPS research center is actively developing production of Inconel and Hastelloy alloy analogues. These materials can be used as substrates for high-temperature thin-film superconductors, making them sought after in modern technologies. To order the required precision materials, call +7 (812) 740–76–55 or leave a request on the website. Our specialists will contact you and explain cooperation terms in detail.

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