Application of Tungsten and Molybdenum Products in Glass Melting Furnaces

1. Working Environment Characteristics

Glass melting furnaces typically operate at temperatures between 1200–1700°C, with complex atmospheres containing oxygen, alkali vapors, and reducing gases. Ordinary metal materials easily oxidize, deform, or melt under such conditions. Therefore, refractory metals with high-temperature stability and corrosion resistance are required.

2. Main Applications of Molybdenum and Tungsten-Molybdenum Alloys

1. Electrode Materials
- Used in the electric heating systems of glass-melting furnaces.
- Molybdenum electrodes feature excellent electrical conductivity and high-temperature strength, enabling long-term stable operation in molten glass.
- Common grades: Mo, TZM (Titanium-Zirconium-Molybdenum alloy), MoLa (Lanthanum-doped Molybdenum).

2. Support and Structural Components
- Applied in glass tanks, feeders, and level-measuring devices.
- Molybdenum and tungsten-molybdenum alloys exhibit good creep and oxidation resistance, ensuring dimensional stability under long-term service.

3. Thermocouple Protection Tubes
- Made from molybdenum or tungsten-molybdenum materials to protect temperature sensors from corrosion in molten glass.

4. Crucibles and Stirrers
- Used in specialty glass production and laboratory furnaces for melting high-purity glass materials.
- Tungsten-molybdenum crucibles offer superior durability and purity.

5. Heat Shields and Reflectors
- Applied in the high-temperature zones of glass furnaces to reduce radiant heat loss and improve energy efficiency.

3. Material Advantages

4. Summary

Tungsten and molybdenum products, with their exceptional high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity, have become essential materials for modern glass melting furnaces. By selecting suitable W-Mo compositions and product forms, manufacturers can significantly extend furnace lifespan, improve glass quality, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance energy efficiency.