Nichromes metallurgical structure confers them a very good
plasticity when cold. There is a growth of the grain under heat
during utilisation of the element without inducing embrittlement of
it when cold. They are used for the manufacture of electric
resistances for appliances (insulated elements type tubular
resistances or for example opened elements on micanit plate) or for
application of industrial furnaces. In addition of a relatively
high specific resistance, Ni-Cr alloys join all the necessary
properties for good performances in use of furnaces: Resistance to
oxidation (they are not sensitive to aggressions of humid air) Low
embrittlement at high temperature Good plasticity Easier to give
them a shape compared with FeCrAl (lower mechanical characteristics
allow indeed a good control of elasticity of the product during
shaping (coiling, folding, drawing) Good resistance to creeping
(more important than ferritic alloys) which is important during
conception of a resistance presenting big heights of waves. Maximal
temperature recommended in the furnace: 1922 / 2012 F in order to
obtain a reasonable life time of the elements.