Tantalum
Extreme durability for critical applications.
When process conditions dissolve even zirconium, tantalum is the final line of defense. However, welding it is unforgiving: a melting point of 3000°C and extreme reactivity demand absolute cleanliness from the fabricator. We ensure that this valuable investment is not compromised by a welding error.
UNS R05200, Ta-2.5W, ASTM B708, ASTM B521, ASTM B365
Typical applications for tantalum
Critical components for aggressive chemical environments.
Tantalum’s strengths
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Superior acid resistance: Tantalum is practically immune to most acids (including hydrochloric and sulfuric acid) even at high temperatures. It offers the chemical resistance of glass combined with the strength of metal.
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Heat transfer with minimal wall thickness: Since tantalum is immune to corrosion, heat exchanger walls can be designed to be paper-thin (0.3–0.5 mm). This guarantees superior efficiency. We possess the methods to reliably weld these ultra-thin materials without burn-through or embrittlement.
Tantalum vs. other materials
Tantalum vs. other materials
Tantalum vs. others
- Tantalum
- Titanium
- Zirconium
- Hastelloy
- Nickel alloys
- Duplex & SDX
- Stainless steels
- Aluminium
- Tantalum
- Titanium
- Zirconium
- Hastelloy
- Nickel alloys
- Duplex & SDX
- Stainless steels
- Aluminium
- Tantalum
- Titanium
- Zirconium
- Hastelloy
- Nickel alloys
- Duplex & SDX
- Stainless steels
- Aluminium
- Tantalum
- Titanium
- Zirconium
- Hastelloy
- Nickel alloys
- Duplex & SDX
- Stainless steels
- Aluminium
- Tantalum
- Titanium
- Zirconium
- Hastelloy
- Nickel alloys
- Duplex & SDX
- Stainless steels
- Aluminium
FAQ about tantalum
Why choose tantalum despite the high cost?
Tantalum is an investment in the lifecycle. In applications where titanium or Hastelloy would corrode through in months, tantalum lasts for decades. It eliminates recurring shutdowns and equipment replacements, making it the most cost-effective option for extreme conditions in the long run.
How does welding tantalum differ from other metals?
Tantalum is a highly reactive metal that requires absolute cleanliness and complete gas shielding during welding (often in a welding chamber or “glove box”). Even a small amount of oxygen or nitrogen in the weld pool embrittles the material, rendering it unusable. PreOne has the equipment and expertise for these demanding joints.
Can tantalum be used in pressure equipment?
Yes, but due to the high price, tantalum is rarely used as a solid, thick-walled pressure vessel. A more common solution is “loose lining” or explosion cladding, where the pressure-resistant steel shell is lined with a thin tantalum layer. We master the welding and repair of these linings.
The last line of defense against corrosion
The ultimate solution for conditions where other metals fail.
When process conditions become so aggressive that titanium or even the best nickel alloys (such as Hastelloy) can no longer endure, tantalum is the solution. It is one of the rarest and most durable metals on Earth.
Processing tantalum requires exceptional expertise. The material’s high melting point (approx. 3000 °C) and strong reactivity with oxygen mean there is no room for welding errors – especially given the high cost of the material.
PreOne specializes in the welding and processing of tantalum. We perform prefabrication of tantalum piping, heat exchanger repairs, and tank linings under controlled conditions. We ensure that this valuable material serves its purpose without hidden defects.
