Temperature resistance
Challenge
Technical ceramics are frequently used because they can withstand significantly higher temperatures than common metals or polymers. While materials such as alumina (Al₂O₃), zirconia (ZrO₂), or aluminum nitride (AlN) offer good high-temperature properties, they reach their limits in certain process environments. This is particularly true when temperatures are consistently very high or when working in inert gas and vacuum processes. The challenge lies in selecting a material that reliably maintains its structure and function even at extreme temperatures.
Consequence
If a material’s temperature resistance is insufficient, this can have significant effects on its properties and, consequently, on processes and equipment. Typical consequences include material degradation, loss of electrical insulation properties, reduced component service life, and more frequent maintenance and replacement.
THE HENZE SOLUTION
Selecting a material with sufficient temperature resistance is therefore a critical factor for reliable and cost-effective processes. Boron nitride offers exceptional temperature resistance and has proven itself in numerous high-temperature applications. Depending on the atmosphere, Henze BNP hexagonal boron nitride retains its properties even at temperatures up to 2,200 °C.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is boron nitride?
Boron nitride is a high-temperature-resistant industrial ceramic. It is a true all-rounder and is characterized by a unique combination of properties: It offers good anti-seizing and lubricating properties, excellent thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion, and outstanding electrical insulation properties. In addition, the material is highly resistant to thermal shock.
What is boron nitride used for?
Due to its versatile properties, boron nitride is used in numerous high-temperature applications and a wide variety of industries. Typical applications include sintering, powder metallurgy, and metal casting, where it serves as a release agent and protects against carburization. It is used in high-temperature furnace construction, aluminum extrusion, welding and laser processing, as well as in the production of thermally conductive plastics. Boron nitride has even proven itself under the extreme conditions of space, for example for electrical insulation in plasma thrusters for satellites.
In what forms does boron nitride come?
- HeBoSint® (components): Sintered precision components that are easy to machine, capable of withstanding extremely high thermal loads, and electrically insulating.
- HeBoCoat® (Coatings): Liquid coatings (water- or solvent-based) that ensure optimal release and lubrication properties on surfaces.
- HeBoFill® (powder): Versatile powders that, among other things, improve the thermal conductivity of plastics when used as fillers.
- HeBoLub® (lubricant additive): A dispersion of highly concentrated, fine boron nitride particles in oil that effectively minimizes friction and wear.
Is boron nitride an alternative to PTFE or PFAS?
Yes, absolutely. If you want to prepare early for a potential PFAS ban and are looking for a PTFE alternative, boron nitride is the ideal solution. It is physiologically safe, highly compatible with plastics and seals, and retains its lubricating properties even under the most extreme conditions.
Can boron nitride be used in the food industry?
Yes, we offer specialized products for sensitive applications. Our HeBoFill® LL-SP 010 and HeBoFill® LL-SP 050 powders are NSF-certified (Category HX-1). They are approved for use in lubricants where incidental food contact may occur, making their use in and around food processing facilities both safe and feasible.
Where are the boron nitride products manufactured?
We manufacture our boron nitride products directly at our facility in Lauben in the Allgäu region (southern Bavaria)—genuine “Made in Germany.” We place great emphasis on sustainability: for example, thanks to a sophisticated energy recovery system, we are able to produce boron nitride sintered bodies using renewable energy.