NickelChrom

NickelChrom is a nickel–chromium alloy commonly referred to by the trade name Nichrome in many contexts. It comprises nickel and chromium in varying ratios, typically with nickel making up roughly 60–80% of the alloy and chromium 20–40%, and can include minor amounts of iron, silicon, or other elements to tune properties. The exact composition is chosen to balance electrical resistance, oxidation resistance, and tensile properties for a given application.

NickelChrom exhibits high electrical resistivity relative to copper, good oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures due to the chromium-rich surface scales, and good stability up to around 1000–1200°C in air, depending on the composition. It remains ductile enough to be drawn into wires, foils, or ribbons, and can be formed into coils or meshes for heating elements. It is non-magnetic or only weakly magnetic.

Production involves melting and alloying nickel and chromium in specific proportions, followed by casting, and subsequent mechanical processing such as extrusion, drawing, or rolling to produce wires, ribbons, or foils. The material is often annealed to relieve stress and improve ductility.

The primary use is as resistance wire for heating elements in toasters, electric heaters, hair dryers, industrial furnaces, and laboratory equipment. It is also used in some soldering iron elements and in high-temperature gaskets and resistors. Nichrome, a popular commercial form of NickelChrom, remains common due to its predictable resistivity and corrosion resistance.

Safety and handling: NickelChrom alloys are generally stable but should be handled with standard industrial hygiene practices; heating elements can become very hot and pose burn hazards.