Du-Co Ceramics manufactures forsterite ceramic components for applications requiring excellent electrical insulation, good mechanical strength, and compatibility with certain glass and metal sealing applications. Forsterite, a magnesium silicate ceramic (Mg₂SiO₄), has relatively high thermal expansion compared to many technical ceramics, making it an excellent material for vacuum devices, hermetic seals, and specialized electrical applications. Forsterite ceramic components can safely operate at temperatures up to approximately 1000°C and provide dependable performance in demanding environments.
Mechanical, Electrical, Thermal and Physical Properties
| Material Grade | Forsterite |
| Physical Properties | |
| Water Absorption (%) | impervious:0.00 |
| Density (g/cc) | 2.8 |
| Color | Tan |
| Mechanical Properties | |
| Flexural Strength (1K PSI) | 20 |
| Compressive Strength (1K PSI) | 85 |
| Tensile Strength (1K PSI) | 9 |
| Hardness (Moh’s Scale) | 7.5 |
| Impact Resistance (Inch-Lbs.) | 5 |
| Electrical Properties | |
| Dielectric Strength (Volts/Mil) | 250 |
| Dielectric Constant (@1MHz) | 6.4 |
| Volume Resistivity 25 C (ohms-cm) | >1E14 |
| Loss Index (@1MHz) | 0.007 |
| Thermal Properties | |
| C.O.T.E. (20-650 C) | 9.9 x 10-6 |
| Safe Operating Temperature (C) | 1000 |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m-C) | 3.8 |
| Note: This information is for design guidance only. Du-Co will not guarantee this information as absolute values. Various geometries can affect properties | |
Forsterite vs. Other Technical Ceramics
Compared to other technical ceramics, forsterite offers:
- Higher thermal expansion than alumina and steatite
- Better compatibility with certain glass and metal sealing applications
- Excellent electrical insulation properties
- Good high-temperature performance
- A unique solution for hermetic sealing applications
This ability to match thermal expansion characteristics is what makes forsterite particularly valuable in specialized sealing applications.
Need a Ceramic Material for Hermetic Seal or Vacuum Applications?
Du-Co Ceramics manufactures forsterite ceramic components for specialized electrical, vacuum, and hermetic seal applications. Our engineering team can help determine whether forsterite is the right material for your project and develop a custom solution that meets your performance requirements. Contact us today to discuss your application or request a quote.