The main difference between zirconium electrodes and pure tungsten electrodes is their composition and performance characteristics. Pure tungsten electrodes are made from 100% tungsten and are typically used in welding applications involving non-critical materials such as carbon steel and stainless steel. They are suitable for direct current (DC) welding.

Zirconium tungsten electrodes, on the other hand, are made from a mixture of tungsten and zirconium oxide, which gives them improved performance at higher temperatures and better resistance to contamination. Zirconium electrodes are commonly used for welding aluminum and magnesium because of their ability to maintain a stable arc and resist weld contamination. They are also suitable for alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) welding and are more versatile than pure tungsten electrodes and can be used in a wider range of welding applications.

In summary, the main differences between zirconium electrodes and pure tungsten electrodes are their composition, high temperature performance, contamination resistance and suitability for different welding materials and welding modes.

Zirconium electrodes are usually identified by their color, which is primarily brown.  This electrode is often referred to as a “brown tip” due to the distinctive brown color of the tip, which helps to easily identify and distinguish it from other types of tungsten electrodes.

Zirconium metal is used in a variety of applications due to its unique properties. Some common uses for zirconium metal include:

1. Nuclear reactor: Zirconium is used as a cladding material for fuel rods in nuclear reactors due to its excellent corrosion resistance and low neutron absorption properties.

2. Chemical processing: Because zirconium is resistant to corrosion by acids, alkalis and other corrosive chemicals, it is used in equipment such as pumps, valves and heat exchangers in the chemical industry.

3. Aerospace: Zirconium is used in aerospace applications for components that require high temperature resistance and corrosion resistance, such as jet engine parts and structural components.

4. Medical implants: Zirconium is used in medical implants, such as dental crowns and orthopedic implants, due to its biocompatibility and corrosion resistance in the human body.

5. Alloy: Zirconium is used as an alloying element in various metal alloys to improve its strength, corrosion resistance and other properties.

Overall, zirconium metal is used across a wide range of industries due to its unique combination of properties, making it a valuable material for a variety of technical and industrial uses.