Havar

Havar is a trade name for a family of cobalt-based alloys known for high strength and good corrosion resistance. The alloy is typically composed with cobalt as the principal element, combined with chromium, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten and other alloying elements. Several grades and variations exist to tailor properties for specific applications, including strength, hardness and formability.

Havar alloys are produced by standard metallurgical methods such as vacuum melting and subsequent thermomechanical processing. They can be heat-treated to achieve a balance of strength and ductility, and are capable of being formed into relatively thin, high-strength components. The alloys are valued for maintaining dimensional stability and mechanical integrity under demanding conditions.

Common applications of Havar alloys include thin foils, diaphragms and windows used in specialized instrumentation and equipment. They are used where a combination of high strength, low weight and resistance to aggressive environments is required, such as certain X-ray tube windows, vacuum devices, and chemical-processing components. The material’s performance makes it suitable for environments involving elevated temperatures and exposure to various chemicals, though the exact resistance can depend on the specific grade and treatment.

Because Havar refers to a family of alloys rather than a single composition, properties can vary between grades. Users select a grade based on the required strength, ductility, corrosion resistance and manufacturability for the intended application. See also related cobalt-based alloys such as Stellite and Haynes.