Seal out air and gas in high-temperature and high-wear applications. This ultrahard ceramic can also be used in applications that require superior strength.

Often used to create bearings, silicon nitride ceramic is harder than many types of bearing steel but is lightweight and can be easily polished. It also withstands high temperatures.

Extremely hard with excellent corrosion resistance, this silicon carbide ceramic is often used for rubbing parts such as bearings and bushings in chemical-processing environments. This material’s hardness means it resists abrasion and wear, but also makes it more brittle than other ceramics. Don’t use it under heavy loads or at high speeds. Nearly chemically inert, it resists corrosion better than other ceramics when in contact with acids and other chemicals. Silicon carbide ceramic conducts heat well and doesn’t expand significantly from heat, so it won’t deform or crack from temperature swings. Rated for use at up to 2550° F, it’s good for use in furnaces and refractories.