0.5mm (24 AWG) Nichrome 60 Round Craft Wire

Description

0.5mm Nichrome 60 Round Craft Wire

The Crazy Wire Company are best know as suppliers of top quality nichrome 60 round craft wire. We have enormous stock levels at all times, as we use this wire to weave our top quality woven mesh products. Our brilliant staff are experts in producing our spools of round wire on our 6 rapid action winding machines. All spools are produced to carry a little extra length to make up for any waste when handling the product.

The nichrome 60 round craft wire, measuring 0.5mm (24 AWG), is a versatile and durable product designed for various crafting and industrial applications. This high-quality alloy of nickel (approximately 60%) and chromium wire is known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and oxidation. This makes it ideal for projects exposed to high temperatures. 0.5mm diameter provides a perfect balance between strength and flexibility, making it easy to manipulate without compromising on durability.

Among the primary uses of this wire is in the creation of custom heating elements. This is due to its high electrical resistivity and ability to withstand temperatures as high as 1150°C. As a result, it is well suited for high-temperature devices such as kilns, toasters, and other appliances that require high heat. As a result of its resistance properties, it is also popular for the manufacture of precision resistors and potentiometers that require stable resistance values.

Specification of Wire:

• Diameter – 0.5mm (500 Micron – 24AWG)
• Ohms/m – 5.65

We also offer the Ni60 grade as flat wire too if required.

What Are Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using Nichrome 60 Wire?

1. Overheating: Nichrome 60 wire can withstand high temperatures, but excessive heat can still damage it. Avoid overheating beyond its specified tolerance to maintain its integrity.
2. Improper Handling: Being a thin wire, it can kink or break if not handled carefully. Avoid bending it sharply or repeatedly at the same spot to prevent weakening or breaking.
3. Incorrect Sizing: Using the wrong gauge for your project can lead to inefficiency or failure. Ensure you select the correct diameter (0.5mm or 24 AWG in this case) for your specific application.
4. Lack of Safety Precautions: When cutting or shaping the wire, always wear appropriate safety gear like gloves and eye protection to avoid injuries.
5. Inadequate Storage: Storing Nichrome 60 wire improperly can lead to tangling or damage. Store it in a cool, dry place and on a spool to prevent kinks and preserve its quality.
6. Improper Soldering Techniques: Nichrome 60 wire requires specific soldering techniques due to its high melting point. Use the appropriate solder and flux, and avoid overheating during soldering.
7. Ignoring Environmental Factors: While Nichrome 60 is corrosion-resistant, it can still be affected by certain environmental factors like extreme humidity or exposure to harsh chemicals.
8. Incorrect Electrical Calculations: When using Nichrome 60 for electrical applications, ensure accurate calculations of resistance and current to prevent overheating and potential hazards.
9. Forgetting to Pre-stretch: For applications where the wire needs to maintain tension, pre-stretching the wire is essential to avoid sagging at high temperatures.
10. Neglecting Regular Inspections: Regularly check the wire for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. This is especially when used in high-stress or high-temperature environments.

Are There Any Drawbacks To Using Nichrome 60 Round Craft Wire?

1. Cost: Nichrome 60 can be more expensive than some other metals used for similar purposes, like copper or aluminum, due to its specialised composition and properties.
2. Machinability: It can be more challenging to machine or shape compared to softer metals. Specialised tools and techniques may be required for cutting, bending, or shaping it precisely.
3. Electrical Conductivity: While excellent for resistance applications, nichrome 60 has lower electrical conductivity compared to materials like copper, making it less suitable for applications where high conductivity is needed.
4. Soldering Difficulty: Soldering nichrome wire can be more challenging due to its high melting point and the need for specific types of solder and flux.
5. Rigidity: The wire, especially in thicker gauges, can be quite rigid and may not be as easy to manipulate for delicate or intricate craft work.
6. Corrosion Resistance Limitations: Although resistant to oxidation and corrosion at high temperatures, it may still corrode in certain harsh chemical environments.
7. Temperature Sensitivity: In applications involving significant temperature changes, the wire’s resistance can vary, potentially affecting performance in precision applications.
8. Limited Color Options: Nichrome wire typically comes in a metallic grey color, which might not be suitable for all aesthetic purposes in crafting.
9. Health and Safety: When heating nichrome wire, it can emit fumes that may be harmful if inhaled in large quantities. Proper ventilation and safety precautions are essential.
10. Environmental Impact: The production of nichrome wire involves nickel and chromium, both of which have environmental impacts in terms of mining and processing.