Zirconia ceramic (Zirconium Oxide, or ZrO2), also known as "ceramic steel", combines high hardness, wear and corrosion resistance, and one of the highest fracture toughness values among all ceramic materials.

Zirconia grades are various. Wintrustek offers two types of Zirconias that are mostly requested on the market.

magnesia-partially-stabilised zirconia (MgO-PSZ)

yttria-partially-stabilised zirconia (Y-PSZ)

They are distinguished from one another by the nature of the stabilizing agent used. Zirconia in its purest form is unstable. Due to their high fracture toughness and relative " elasticity ", Magnesia-partially-stabilized zirconia (MgO-PSZ) and yttria-partially-stabilized zirconia (Y-PSZ) exhibit exceptional resistance to mechanical shocks and flexural load. These two zirconias are the ceramics of choice for applications requiring extreme mechanical strength. Other grades in fully stabilized composition exist and are mostly used for high-temperature applications.

The most common grade of Zirconia is Yttria Partially Stabilized Zirconia (Y-PSZ). Because of its high thermal expansion and exceptional resistance to crack propagation, it is an excellent material for joining with metals such as steel.  

Typical Properties

High density

High flexural strength

Very high fracture toughness

Good wear resistance

Low thermal conductivity  

Good resistance to thermal shocks

Resistance to chemical attacks

Electrical conductivity at high temperature

Fine surface finish easily achievable

Typical Applications

Grinding media

Ball valve and ball seats

Milling pot

Metal extrusion dies

Pump plungers and shafts

Mechanical seals

Oxygen sensor

Welding pins