1. Protective Applications
Boron nitride serves as an effective protective material in steel smelting, safeguarding metal products throughout various production stages.
For instance, within continuous casting operations, boron nitride (BN) is employed as a mold flux, which helps prevent slag inclusions in cast products while minimizing wear on the tundish and mold equipment.
Additionally, BN can function as a filtration medium for molten metals, capturing impurities and dissolved gases to enhance both the purity and overall quality of the final metal.
2. High-Temperature Thermal Materials
Thanks to its high thermal conductivity and excellent thermal stability, boron nitride is well-suited for demanding thermal applications in metallurgy.
For example, during steel production, BN is used in the fabrication of crucibles, thermocouple protection tubes, and other high-temperature system components. These parts exhibit strong oxidation resistance and maintain structural integrity under extreme heat.
Furthermore, BN linings in high-temperature furnaces contribute to extended service life and improved operational safety.
Typical applications include: crucibles, boats, liquid metal transfer systems, rocket nozzles, bases for high-power devices, pump components, casting molds, and high-temperature segments used in rockets, spacecraft thermal protection, and magnetohydrodynamic generators.
3. Thermal Insulation
With its outstanding insulating characteristics, boron nitride is an ideal choice for thermal management in metallurgical settings.
In continuous casting and rolling mills, for example, BN is used in insulation plates and sleeves to limit heat exchange between hot billets and the surrounding atmosphere. This results in better production efficiency and product quality.
It is also applied as an insulating layer in high-temperature furnaces, helping to reduce unnecessary heat loss and conserve energy.
Example uses include: high-temperature segments, rocket combustion chamber linings, thermal shields for aerospace applications, and components exposed to corrosive conditions in magnetohydrodynamic power systems.
4. Machining and Tooling
Owing to its notable wear resistance and lubricating properties, boron nitride is valuable in metalworking and tooling applications.
In metal cutting, BN coatings are applied to tools to increase durability and prolonged service life.
It is also used in the form of abrasives and polishing compounds, aiding in improved machining efficiency and superior surface quality of finished products.
