Which material is most suitable for the spray process?

TEMPERATURE

The temperature at which your application operates is a critical factor in selecting nozzle material. Different materials have different temperature limits due to their melting or softening temperature. For example, plastic materials such as PTFE have lower temperature resistance than robust nickel-based alloys. It is important to weigh temperature limitations together with other factors, such as corrosion and chemical exposure.

Melting or softening of material establishes maximum temperature limits, which are listed in the table below (Temp. Rating (°C)). These temperature limits must be reduced when corrosion, oxidation, or chemical attack are present.

Temperature damage

CORROSION

Corrosion can lead to wear and tear, increased flow, changes in droplet size and spray pattern. This in turn leads to increased costs due to process deterioration, increased maintenance or equipment damage downstream in the process.

Corrosion is a common problem in many applications, especially when handling aggressive chemicals or in harsh environments. Nozzle materials differ in how well they resist corrosion. Plastics offer an economical solution for corrosion resistance, but are limited to low temperature applications. Metals offer a wide range of corrosion-resistant options, from cast iron to precious metals, stainless steel and nickel-based alloys, all of which provide superior protection.

Corrosion damage

DURABILITY

Wear-resistant materials are essential to extend nozzle life in applications where the fluid contains abrasive particles. Here, hardened stainless steel, cobalt alloys, tungsten carbide or ceramics are preferred due to their durability against abrasive wear. These materials are often used in processes where liquids with abrasive properties are sprayed.

CHEMICALS

There are few general guidelines to this complex subject, but the material used for piping might provide a useful indicator of a suitable nozzle material. If you know which chemicals the process contains, we can assist you in finding a the right material for your process.

COST

Sometimes, of course, cost needs to be taken into account, but it is important to consider the cost of the investment over the full lifespan of the nozzle.

MATERIAL

Below is a list of the most requested spray nozzle materials. The list includes the standard specification (DIN), maximum temperature limit and BETE material code.

Abrasion damage