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Why can iridium now be used in
electrodes?
In what other fields is iridium
commonly used for?
DENSO is now able to use iridium because of our technology
in the field of precious metals, for which we are a world-leader
and also because of our advanced laser welding technology.
Because of its high melting point and superb corrosion
resistance, iridium is used widely in fields employing
state-of-the-art technology such as the aerospace,
medical, and motor vehicle industries.
As explained in the answer to , iridium is an extremely hard material.
In the past, sintering material was generally cut and this meant
high costs
and
restrictions on processing form and dimensions
.
Therefore, it could not be used as a material in spark plugs. However, our new precious
metals technology has meant that we can now process
iridium by drawing
it in its
melted form. This enables iridium to be processed in all dimensions and forms.
Therefore, DENSO has moved quickly to use it as a material for use in spark plug
electrodes.
■
Components in aerospace industry
■
Electrodes for equipment used in clinical medicine such as
pacemakers and catheters
■
Metal pots for growing crystals for electronic industries
■
Automobile catalyzers
■
Jewelry
