Graphite – unique properties, diverse applications
Graphite is the ideal material - high thermal load capacity and low expansion coefficient
How a special material makes history
Graphite has been making history for thousands of years – literally and figuratively. This versatile material is utilised in many different fields: Beginning in the Neolithic period it was used as a dye. Since the 16th century the material has been used in writing utensils (incorrectly referred to as “lead pencils”); It was later also used to produce flameproof crucibles. Since modern times graphite has been used for brushes in electric motors, as a lubricant or separating agent or as moderator in nuclear power plants (nuclear graphite).
Unique physical properties
As with diamond, graphite occurs under natural conditions on earth as a special form of pure carbon. It exhibits unique physical properties: Particularly pronounced are its thermal conductivity and durability (at temperatures of -220°C to +550°C), the high resistance to acids, media, and a wide range of chemicals in general and its electrical conductivity. Graphite is not hazardous to health, it is neither flammable nor does it become brittle, it is very flexible, resistant to aging and to radiation, and it has positive mechanical properties across the entire range of temperatures.
Durable and reliable
Especially for the production of extremely durable and reliable seals, this extraordinary characteristic makes graphite an ideal material. Since the 1970’s, a core competency of KLINGER BartschGmbH has been to utilise graphite qualities to perfection. Here you can learn about the typical ring shapes (standard products) of our extensive line of products. [Link zu „Typische Ringformen“]
Scale-like natural graphites
Crystalline-oriented, scale-like natural graphites form the starting substances for the production of graphite sealing materials. With thermal decomposition of these compounds loose flakes are formed, which can be compacted to films in which the graphite particles go into alignment. This alignment results in a strong directional dependency of the physical properties. Since graphite has a metallic lustre and substantial thermal and electrical conductivity, it may also be referred to as a metal-like carbon modification.
We produce graphite applications with an industrial quality of 99.85 %. We would be pleased to share our knowledge and know-how on all aspects of graphite in our customer training programmes.
