3M™ Silicon Nitride Materials

3M™ Silicon Nitride is a lightweight, high-strength ceramic material used as an alternative to stainless steel, super alloys, tungsten carbide and first-generation ceramics such as Al2O3 and ZrO2. We can produce components to net or near-net shape, and components requiring close tolerances can be finish-machined in our fully equipped precision diamond grinding facilities.

3M™ Silicon Nitride is available in a variety of grades, including fully dense and high-purity compositions. These materials offer properties such as excellent thermal shock resistance, compatibility with nonferrous metal melts, and improved structural reliability compared to other ceramic materials.Grades of Silicon Nitride3M silicon nitride materials and components are produced at fully dedicated manufacturing plants in the U.S. and Germany, using unique compositions and processing techniques. We can produce components to net or near-net shape, and components requiring close tolerances can be finish-machined in our fully equipped precision diamond grinding facilities. Grades of 3M™ Silicon Nitride include: • 147-1B (reaction bonded): lower cost alternative to fully dense grades • 147-31N (gas pressure sintered): fully dense grade with extreme hardness, increased fracture toughness • 147A (hot pressed): high purity, high strength • Sintered: gas-tight, excellent temperature response

• 3M™ Silicon Nitride offers high wear resistance
• Exhibits excellent fracture toughness and tribological properties
• Exhibits high strength in industrial applications
• 60% lighter than steel