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Views: 0 Author: Rachel Wynn Publish Time: 2025-06-24 Origin: Site
When selecting resistance wire for high-temperature applications, two materials dominate the industrial market: nichrome (NiCr) and kanthal (FeCrAl). While both are widely used in heating elements, their composition, performance characteristics, and industrial suitability vary. This article provides a technical comparison to help B2B buyers, OEMs, and engineers choose the right material for their applications.
| Wire Type | Composition |
|---|---|
| Nichrome (NiCr 80/20) | 80% Nickel, 20% Chromium |
| Kanthal A1 | 72% Iron, 22% Chromium, 5.8% Aluminum |
| Property | Nichrome | Kanthal |
|---|---|---|
| Max Operating Temperature | Up to 1200°C | Up to 1400°C |
| Electrical Resistivity (Ω·mm²/m) | 1.10–1.18 | 1.35–1.45 |
| Thermal Expansion | Lower | Higher |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (due to chromium oxide) | Very High (due to aluminum oxide layer) |
| Mechanical Strength (at temp) | Higher ductility | More brittle, harder to form |
| Magnetic Properties | Non-magnetic | Magnetic |
Nichrome: Preferred for compact heating coils, laboratory furnaces, consumer appliances (e.g., toasters, dryers).
Kanthal: Preferred for high-watt density, longer-life industrial heaters, ceramic kilns, glass manufacturing.
It depends on your operating environment and design goals. Use this guideline:
Choose Nichrome if your application requires more flexibility in coil forming, rapid heating, and lower-cost custom coils.
Choose Kanthal if you need ultra-high temperature endurance, less oxidation, and long-term durability in large-scale furnaces.
As a supplier of both Nichrome and Kanthal wire, we advise B2B buyers to consider:
Operating Temperature Range and cycle frequency
Forming requirements: Nichrome is easier to bend and coil
Electrical load and resistance values
Custom coil manufacturing or raw material supply
Yes, typically Nichrome wire is more affordable due to its simpler alloy composition and lower melting point, but prices vary by grade and market conditions.
Not always. Kanthal is more brittle and harder to form, making it less suitable for small coils or precision devices like hair dryers or vape heaters.
In large industrial heating systems, Kanthal may last longer due to its stronger aluminum oxide protection. However, in small-form applications, Nichrome can be more reliable due to better mechanical flexibility.
Yes. Both materials are RoHS and REACH compliant when sourced from certified manufacturers. Always request material test certificates before bulk purchase.
