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5 silicon carbide

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About 5 silicon carbide

Types of 5 silicon carbide

Silicon carbides come in different varieties based on the structure needed, the way it is prepared, and its particular function. Hence, the five silicon carbide types can be based on the aesthetically appealing features or the structure of the silicons carbide crystals:

  • Imperfectly Faceted

    This type of silicon carbide crystal has bound crystals because of contained dislocations. Even though the flaws are visible, they do not significantly impact the material's functionality. In technical applications where the crystal's movement feature is not important, imperfectly faceted crystals can be acceptable. They can be used to build components that do not require more strength.

  • Polytypic Facets

    These crystals are a characteristic of silicon carbide materials, which form in distinct structural forms, also called polytypes. Every polytype facet has a distinct stacking sequence of the atomic layers, leading to the formation of crystals with various physical and chemical properties. For example, 3C-SiC, 4H-SiC, and 6H-SiC are common polytypes of silicon carbide. They are usually used in electronic devices. This might also include crystals with polytypic facets for enhanced mechanical characteristics or thermal resistance.

  • Flaw Facets

    Flaw facets are the areas on the crystal surface that have flaws or defects in the form of cracks, scratches, or foreign inclusions. On the other hand, flawed facets can be a great temptation for applications in which the crystal quality is not critical for factors like infrastructure or manufacturing of composite materials. In this case, the appearance of silicon carbide looks appealing, but functionality requires low values of crystal quality.

  • Monocrystalline Facets

    Monocrystalline silicon carbide facets are perfect for high-quality silicon carbide crystals with a single, continuous crystal structure. These crystals are typically characterized by high strength, exceptional thermal and chemical stability, and a high level of conductivity. Therefore, they are widely used in electronic and optoelectronic devices. Moreover, due to their outstanding mechanical properties, they also find uses in high-performance abrasives.

  • Brilliant Facets

    These facets indicate that the crystal has high-quality shine with minimal roughness on the top. Such characteristics indicate that the crystal structure is ordered, and there aren't many dislocations or defects. It is primarily a morphological character of the diamond and other gemstones. SC silicon carbide crystals are also used in electronic devices, which demand premium crystal quality.

Industrial Applications of 5 silicon carbide

High Temperature

  • Power generation

    Silicon carbide's unrivaled capacity to withstand high temperatures, coupled with its exceptional structural stability, positions it as an excellent choice for power generation systems. Such systems include gas turbines and combined cycle power plants, which operate under extreme conditions. Therefore, using silicon carbide components in these systems improves operational efficiency and durability.

  • Aerospace and Gas Turbines

    In the aerospace sector, silicon carbide plays a crucial role in manufacturing components for jet engines and rockets. Which improves weight-to-strength ratios while ensuring reliability in harsh flight conditions. As a result, in gas turbines, silicon carbide is used to produce seals, blades, and other critical components that can endure the elevated temperatures and stresses encountered during combustion.

  • Ceramic Kilns and Furnaces

    Silicon carbide bricks serve as the backbone of kilns and furnaces in the ceramic and metallurgical industries, where excessive heat is an everyday occurrence. These bricks resist thermal shock, wear, and oxidation, thereby creating a long-lasting lining that promotes effective and safe operation. In foyers meant for metals, silicon carbide materials ensure the longevity of the structure against molten metal and slag.

  • Steelmaking and Foundries

    Silicon carbide is now becoming trendy in the steelmaking sector, particularly in blast furnaces and converters. Its ability to function as a refractory material improves heat containment and enhances the reduction process. In foundries, SiC particles are used to manufacture casts and molds that can withstand pouring temperatures with high alloy effectiveness.

Electrical Devices

  • Semiconductors and Power Electronics

    In this era, silicon carbide substrates have immense importance in power electronic devices such as MOSFETs and diodes. These devices can operate at extreme temperatures, voltages, and frequencies; they are suitable for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and industrial motors, which improves their efficiency and effectiveness.

  • Electronics

    Silicon carbide is widely used in optoelectronic devices, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Such LEDs have superior brightness and energy efficiency. Blue and UV light emission devices use silicon carbide substrates in making a wide range of applications that go up to the fields of medicine and data storage.

  • Sensors

    SiC is used to manufacture temperature and pressure sensors for aerospace and automotive applications. Therefore, sensors made from silicon carbide can function reliably in high-temperature settings, retaining accuracy and durability in environments that would degrade other materials.

Cutting Tools and Abrasives

  • Abrasive Discs and Wheels

    Silicon carbide grains are widely used in abrasive wheels and discs to cut, grind, and polish hard materials such as ceramics, metals, and hardened steel. These tools are valued for their sharpness and durability; they ensure efficient machining with minimum heat generated.

  • Cutting Blades

    Silicon carbide is the ideal material for making cutting blades for diamond cutting knives and precision work. These blades outperform conventional materials in cutting hard, brittle substances such as granite, marble, and glass. Thus, this makes them an important tool in the construction and stoneworking industries.

  • Wear Parts

    Silicon carbide's exceptional hardness and wear resistance make it an ideal material for manufacturing cutting tools. Things like drills, inserts, and tool holders encounter wear due to abrasion in tough machining conditions. Hence, tools with silicon carbide tips or parts have a longer lifespan, improving efficiency and reducing frequent tool replacement.

5 silicon carbide

Five types of silicon carbide (SiC) exhibit remarkable characteristics and properties due to their unique crystalline structures. Each material is commonly used on a large scale in the electronics industry because of its mechanical, thermal, electrical, and optoelectronic properties.

  • 3C-SiC

    3C-SiC, a cubic crystal structure silicon carbide polytype, has gained popularity, especially in the semiconductor industry. Its relatively high electron mobility makes it suitable for power electronic devices, like MOSFETs and diodes. In addition, 3C-SiC can be grown on silicon substrates, integrating it into existing silicon manufacturing processes.

  • 4H-SiC

    4H-SiC, with its hexagonal crystal structure, is renowned for its epitaxial growth ease. This polytype possesses excellent electric field strength, high charge carrier mobility, and widespread usage in power electronics.

  • 6H-SiC

    6H-SiC features a hexagonal crystal structure like 4H-SiC but with a lower band gap. Although the mobility is slightly less compared to other polytypes, 6H-SiC is widely utilized in power devices and high-temperature applications due to its stability and availability.

  • RS-SiC

    RS-SiC contains a stacking fault that induces a rhombohedral crystal structure. Hence, this silicon carbide polytype is less common but valuable in niche applications where specific electromechanical properties come in handy. Its properties mainly depend on the extent and type of the polytypic distribution in the material.

  • LT-SiC

    LT-SiC is essentially low-temperature polytypes. Although it's generally used in research, it has potential uses in electronic devices. Its low-temperature growth conditions make it appropriate for devices requiring low defect density.

Product Specifications and Features of 5 silicon carbide

Key Specifications

  • Silicon carbide grains: Silicon carbide grains can be manufactured in diverse grain size distributions, including 60 grit silicon carbide, 80 grit, and finer sizes. The grit size is a prominent factor that determines the usage, level of smoothness, and material compatibility.
  • Abrasive belt: The size of the abrasive belt backing significantly influences the belt's performance and compatibility with tasks. Silicon carbide belts come in various widths and lengths to fit distinct machines and applications.
  • Bonding agent: The bonding agent is meant to secure the silicon carbide particles onto the belt. Distinct bonds, such as resin and rubber, provide each belt with a different level of durability and flexibility. This is determined by the nature of the specific application.
  • Belt speed: Blet speed was measured in surface feet per minute (SFPM). It addresses how quickly the belt will move across a workpiece. Belt speeds are adjustable on some tools to allow the user to optimize the belt for specific materials and tasks.

How to Install

  • Keep the Work Area Clean: Turn off the power to the tool or device that the silicon carbide belt will be installed on. If it's a hand tool, unplug it or remove the battery. Ensure the area near the tool is clean and free of debris to prevent accidents.
  • Remove the Old Belt: If there was any old belt, it should have been removed. For tools with rollers or pulleys, loosen the tension and free the old belt.
  • Inspect the Belt: Ensure the new silicon carbide belt is in great condition prior to using it. Check for any cracks, tears, or defects. For this case, belts are available in different sizes. Measure the old belt, or look up the tool's manual to get the required length and width.
  • Fit the Belt: Position the new silicon carbide belt in such a way that the grit side faces the roller or pulley of the tool. Apply the belt to the drive pulley. Rotate the pulley to fit the belt onto it. Repeat the process for the other roller.
  • Tension the Belt: After the belt has been fitted into the pulleys and rollers, tension it properly. Adjust the tool's tensioning system so the belt fits snugly but not too tightly.
  • Check Alignment: Manually spin the rollers. The belt should track straight with no wobbling. Adjust the tool's tracking system if needed. Confirm that the belt properly centers itself on the rollers without drifting to one side.
  • Final Check: Once the belt is properly installed, it should be checked for proper tension and alignment one more time. Reattach any guards or covers that were removed during the installation process.
  • Test Run: Finally, turn on the tool at a low speed to ensure the belt runs smooth, and watch for proper alignment and tension.

How to Use

  • Safety First: Put on appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask. Quote, silicon carbide sanding belts are especially suitable for hard and brittle materials. Prior to using the belt, ensure that the work area is properly lit and free from distractions.
  • Prepare the Material: Secure the workpiece being used. It can be achieved by using a clamp or vice to hold it in place. Ensure the surface being worked on is clean and free from debris, dirt, and other particles. Assess the surface to ensure it is dry as the presence of moisture will increase friction.
  • Power Up the Tool: Based on the established procedure, install the silicon carbide belt on the tool. After the belt has been installed, power up the tool slowly to examine the vibration or wobbling. Adjust the tracking until the belt is centered and straight.
  • Adjust Speed and Pressure: Begin with a slow speed and gradually increase the speed, which enables better control and reduces heat buildup. Apply even pressure across the belt and ensure the material doesn't overheat.
  • Start Sanding: To start sanding, begin with light pressure and gradually increase it as the material begins to wear down. Work in a consistent back-and-forth motion or in the circular method depending on the sought-after finish or the shape of the workpiece.
  • Monitor Progress: Regularly check the workpiece as well as the belt for anywear. In the process, the quantity of pressure and sanding time should be adjusted.
  • Finish and Clean Up: When a satisfactory finish has been achieved, turn off the tool and remove the workpiece. In this case, the work area should be cleaned upon finishing the project.

Maintenance and Repair

  • Regular Inspection: Inspect the belt for signs of wear, tear, or damage before and after each use. Check for worn areas, frayed edges, or missing grit. Replace the belt when worn down to ensure optimum performance.
  • Keep it Clean: To maintain the efficiency of the belt, use a belt cleaner or a rubber eraser to remove debris and particles that have gotten stuck on the surface. Also, it's a ton idea to clean the workpiece to diminish transfer.
  • Proper Storage: Store this belt in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources when not being used. Avoid folding or twisting the belt to prevent cracks and damage. Keep it in a protective case or drawer.
  • Check Tension and Alignment: During use, periodically check the tension and alignment of the belt. Ensure it remains centered on the pulleys and not slack. Readjust tension as needed for consistent performance.
  • Monitor Belt Wear: While in use, closely watch the wear pattern on the belt. Check for uneven wear or significant grits missing from one area. This is a core sign that it needs to be replaced so the belt lasts longer.
  • Tool Check: Beyond the belt, regularly inspect the tool itself. Ensure pulleys and rollers are free from debris. Check for any unusual wear that may impact belt performance.
  • Heat and Overuse Prevention: Avoid excessive heat generation during prolonged use. Heat can weaken the belt material and diminish its effectiveness, and turn off the tool and allow the belt to cool between heavy-use intervals.

Quality and Safety Considerations of 5 silicon carbide

  • Material Quality:

    Only silicon carbide belts of the finest quality should be used. The manufacturers of these belts use premium abrasives. They provide immense wear resistance and cutting capability. Prior to purchasing a silicon carbide belt, one should research different manufacturers and read other users' reviews. Purchasing these belts from renowned manufacturers will ensure that only genuine materials were used.

  • Sanding Discs and Belts

    The 100 grit silicon carbide is moderately coarse and suitable for shaping and smoothing surfaces. It removes material at a fair rate for faster stock removal on rough surfaces. The 120 grit silicon carbide is slightly coarser than 100 grit and better for cleaning sharp edges. It prepares surfaces for finer finishes rather than deeper scratches.

  • Sanding Techniques:

    It is recommended to use even strokes with light pressure. This will help do away with overheating the material and prolong the life of the belt. Using excessive force on the belt will produce more friction than necessary. This will cause them to wear faster and might even damage the workpiece.

  • Protective Equipment:

    Working with silicon carbide requires a lot of precaution. Although silicon carbide is tough, it produces harmful dust while wearing out. This dust contains sharp particles that can cause respiratory harm if inhaled. Breathing masks are specifically designed for capturing silica and silicon carbide dust. They are supposed to be worn as the dust generated can cause skin irritation and injuries to the eyes. One should wear gloves and safety glasses when handling the belts or working in an area with a lot of airborne dust.

  • Dust Control:

    All the current tools have built-in dust control. Even with such tools, using additional vacuum systems will help reduce the amount of dust.

  • Workpiece Monitoring:

    Silicon carbide belts generate high heat when sanding. This can cause the workpiece's material to break down; monitoring the temperature is paramount. Stop periodically to check the workpiece. If there's any sign of discoloration or if it's getting too hot, it needs to cool down.

  • Proper Cooling:

    Excessive heat affects both the belt and workpiece. Take short breaks within every few minutes of use to allow both the belt and workpiece to cool down. In situations where they're both overheated, it can cause loss of abrasives and damage to the material.

  • Disposal:

    Dust created during working with silicon carbide can be dangerous to the environment in any way. It needs to be disposed of properly. It also needs to be prevented from going to places where it can affect the environment or harm animals.

Q&A

Q1. What makes silicon carbide ideal for cutting tools?

Silicon carbide possesses a sharp cutting edge and exceptional hardness. This makes it ideal for cutting tools.

Q2. What are some key industrial applications of silicon carbide?

Silicon carbide is popularly used for abrasives, cutting tools, high-performance ceramics, etc.

Q3. What is the role of silicon carbide in power electronic devices?

Due to its high thermal conductivity, silicon carbide is ideal for power electronic devices like MOSFETs.

Q4. Is silicon carbide a good conductor of heat?

Silicon carbide is an impressive conductor of heat. This helps dissipe heat and prevents damage.

Q5. How is silicon carbide beneficial for electric vehicles?

Silicon carbide enhances the efficiency of electric vehicle motors. This decrease in energy loss extends the vehicle’s range and performance.