Invar

Invar is a ferrous nickel-iron alloy with a nickel content that ranges from 36% to 41%. Invar is a type of metal that has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning that it does not expand or contract much when heated or cooled. The name Invar comes from the word invariable, referring to its relative lack of expansion or contraction with temperature changes. Invar can withstand typical atmospheric and cryogenic temperatures while maintaining good strength which makes it ideal for aerospace applications.

Typical Applications for Invar

Invar is commonly used in aerospace engineering. Invar alloy is used to make parts of satellites, rockets, and spacecraft that need to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. For example, invar alloy is used to make the fuel tanks of some rockets, as it can prevent leaks and ruptures due to thermal stress.

Invar is also used in other fields of manufacturing, such as optics, electronics, and telecommunications. Invar is used to make optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, and prisms, that need to have precise shapes and sizes. Invar is also used to make electronic components, such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors, that need to have consistent electrical properties. In addition, invar is used to make telecommunication cables and wires, as it can reduce signal loss and interference due to temperature fluctuations. Invar is commonly used where high dimensional stability is required, such as in precision instruments, clocks, seismic gauges, astronomical telescopes, laser systems, capacitor bushings, engine valves and large frame molds.

ADDere’s additive manufacturing can streamline the development and production process of large-scale components made from Invar. Contact us today and see if your manufacturing operations can benefit from ADDere’s additive manufacturing with Invar.