Moly, Mola, TZM, & Other Alloys

What is Moly?

Molybdenum, also known as Moly, is a refractory metal (high temperature alloy) with a well-balanced range of properties making it a great solution for many different industries and applications. Moly, with a melting temperature of 4760℉, is useful in many high temperature applications where melting temperatures are a concern. In comparison to tungsten and tantalum, it has the third highest melting point. The metal’s extraordinary resistance to heat is possible thanks to the material’s high energy binding of individual atoms. This binding permits the use of the metal in many industrial applications that would not be feasible with common metals and alloys. Moly’s high melting point, excellent strength at elevated temperatures, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and high level of thermal conductivity make this the ideal solution for many applications. Additionally, Moly is softer and more ductile than tungsten contributing to its machinability but can also be alloyed with other compounds to increase specific performance attributes. Refer to alloys of Molybdenum such as Mola and TZM listed below. Our office stocks commonly requested Moly and TZM parts, but if you need an item not listed or a metric size please contact us directly for a custom quote.

What is TZM Alloy?

TZM Alloy, also known as Titanium-Zirconium-Molybdenum alloy, contains 0.50% Titanium, 0.08% Zirconium, and 0.01 – 0.04% Carbon. TZM is manufactured from molybdenum by using small quantities of tiny, extremely fine carbides through P/M or Arc Casting technology. This alloy is a great high strength solution for high temperature applications.  The alloy is stronger than pure molybdenum and possesses a higher recrystallization temperature and better creep resistance. Commonly used in applications involving demanding mechanical loads, it’s recommended use temperature is between 700℃ & 1400℃.

What is Mola?

Molybdenum-Lanthom Oxide, also known as Mola, is an alloyed metal providing specific advantages over pure Moly. This alloyed metal is made by adding Lanthanum Oxide during the manufacturing process, giving the molybdenum a so-called stacked fiber microstructure which is stable at temperatures up to 2000℃. This special microstructure allows the alloy to be creep-resistant even under extreme use conditions. Additionally, the alloy has a lower cold shearing strength, higher tensile strength, and greater resistance to deformation at high temperatures. The alloy is an ideal materials for applications requiring dimensional stability and strength at temperatures above the capabilities of pure Moly or TZM. Common machining is done to produce furnace components such as stranded and other wires, sintering and annealing boats or evaporator coils. In the lighting industry, molybdenum-lanthanum oxide is used for example for retaining and feed wires.