graphite alternative

[boldfish]

Can anyone recommend an alternative to graphite for use in glass fixturing? The graphite works exceptionally well but is rather delicate and any substantial impact almost certainly causes the fixture to shatter.

Our glass products are heated, pinched, and then fixtured to create a specific profile. The fixture must be able to withstand repeated contact with "molten" glass (not quite molten but very near). The glass must also not stick to the fixture.

I have heard that Tungsten Carbide would perform to expectations but would really like someone to confirm this before we take that extra step.

 

[unclesyd]

Have you checked out the different types of graphite available for your service. Sorry I don’t remember the specific type but I got several samples of graphite from the different companies for the glass blower on site to use for “pinchers”. His problem was that the commercial ones were wearing out and had to be reshape too often. He told me later that he had settled one type that was far superior to anything available. As stated I can’t remember the specific types but there should be better type for you service.
I don’t know about WC2 in that service. If you have tools of any size they would be quite heavy.

There is a material called white graphite, hexagonal Boron Nitride, that may work. This material is also used as coating for graphite to prevent wetting and erosion. There is one coating that is supposed to increase the strength of graphite mold or crucible. I will try to find information on it.

Rather long URL,but take a look at this page. The material is Combat hBN

http://www.bn.saint-gobain.com/Data...ation_edit.asp?ele_ch_id=A0000000000000001200