Why isn’t armor made of tungsten?

Why Isn’t Armor Made of Tungsten?

Tungsten, a dense and hard metal, is often overlooked as a potential material for armor. Despite its impressive properties, tungsten is not commonly used for armor due to several reasons. In this article, we’ll explore the limitations of tungsten as a material for armor and discuss why it’s not as popular as other materials.

Density and Brittleness

One of the primary reasons tungsten is not used for armor is its density. Tungsten has a density of approximately 19.3 g/cm³, which is significantly higher than other common armor materials like steel (7.9 g/cm³) and titanium (4.5 g/cm³). While density is an important factor in armor, it’s not the only consideration. Tungsten’s brittleness is another significant issue. When subjected to impact, tungsten is prone to shattering, which can lead to catastrophic failure.

Shattering and Fragmentation

When tungsten is struck, it can shatter into small fragments, which can cause further damage. This is particularly problematic in armor applications, where the goal is to absorb and dissipate energy, not create additional hazards. In contrast, materials like steel and titanium are more resistant to shattering and can absorb impact without fragmenting.

Cost and Availability

Tungsten is a relatively rare and expensive metal, which can make it challenging to source and produce armor components. The high cost of tungsten also limits its use in applications where cost is a significant factor, such as mass-produced armor.

Manufacturing Challenges

Tungsten is a difficult metal to work with, particularly when it comes to forming and shaping. Its high melting point and density make it challenging to machine, cut, and weld, which can increase production costs and lead times.

Comparison to Other Materials

Here’s a comparison of tungsten’s properties to those of other common armor materials:

Alternatives to Tungsten

So, what are the alternatives to tungsten for armor applications? Some common materials used in armor include:

• Steel: A popular choice for armor due to its strength, durability, and affordability.
• Titanium: A lightweight, high-strength metal that’s often used in advanced armor applications.
• Composite materials: A combination of materials, such as fibers and polymers, that offer improved strength-to-weight ratios and resistance to impact.

Conclusion

While tungsten has impressive properties, its limitations make it less suitable for armor applications. Its density and brittleness, combined with high cost and manufacturing challenges, make it a less popular choice compared to other materials. Steel, titanium, and composite materials offer a better balance of strength, durability, and affordability, making them more suitable for armor applications.