Silicon nitride (Si3N4) ceramics offer some of the best-in-class tribological properties, with outstanding nominal fracture toughness and exceptional strength characteristics (compressive, flexural, etc.). This combination gives silicon nitride outstanding wear resistance. The result is that a component fabricated from advanced ceramics like silicon nitride can withstand significant ongoing stress throughout its service life. This makes it the ideal ceramic material for dies, weld rolls, and cutting tools for example.

The mechanical properties of silicon nitride ceramics are typically matched by high thermal capabilities and good corrosion resistance, providing fully-rounded performance in demanding industrial environments. In fact, the ceramic has been engineered to exceed long-serving industry-standard materials like alumina (Al2O3) and tungsten carbide (WC) in severe wear applications where corrosion and temperature are consistent concerns. Ceramic nozzles typify these sorts of conditions.