Advanced Silicon Nitride Ceramic Manufacturer— Designed for Strength, Thermal Shock & Long Service Life
ADCERAX is a manufacturer of silicon nitride ceramics, supplying standard and custom Si₃N₄ parts such as thermocouple protection tubes, riser tubes, ceramic bearing balls, heater sleeves, substrates, and precision-machined components. Our ceramics withstand molten metal, high speed, and rapid temperature change—where metal, quartz, or alumina fail.
Factory-direct supply, engineering support, fast delivery, and stable quality help customers cut downtime and extend equipment life.
👉Need a durable silicon nitride solution? Send us your drawing — we’ll make it real.
What are Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) Ceramics?
Is Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) a Ceramic?
Yes — silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) is a high-performance advanced ceramic, classified as a non-oxide ceramic. It consists of silicon and nitrogen atoms arranged in a crystalline lattice with strong covalent bonding, which gives it the essential characteristics of ceramics: high hardness, high melting point, electrical insulation, and brittleness rather than plastic deformation.
silicon nitride is manufactured through ceramic processing techniques such as pressureless sintering, hot pressing, or hot isostatic pressing. This results in a fully dense silicon nitride ceramic material.
Advantages of Silicon Nitride Ceramics
Resists cracking and impact in high-load and high-speed systems such as bearings, turbines, and cutting tools..
Maintains strength even during rapid heating and cooling, ideal for molten aluminum, engines, and thermal processing.
Non-wetting to aluminum and magnesium; prevents corrosion and contamination in casting and metal handling.
Lower weight than steel yet highly wear-resistant, improving efficiency and reducing maintenance in rotating parts.
Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) Ceramics Properties
Silicon nitride ceramics are manufactured by different sintering processes—RBSN, SSN, GPSN, HPSN, and HIP Si₃N₄—each producing unique density, strength, and thermal properties. These process variations determine performance levels, from cost-efficient porous parts to fully dense, high-strength structural ceramics.
✅ 1.Reaction-Bonded Si₃N₄ (RBSN)
Made by nitriding silicon powder compacts. It retains porosity (~30%), has lower mechanical properties but offers near-net shape capability and lower cost. Used for applications like kiln furniture.
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.4–2.8 g/cm³ | Low due to open porosity |
| Flexural Strength | 150–300 MPa | Lower strength vs SSN |
| Fracture Toughness | 2–4 MPa·m½ | Brittle, porous |
| Hardness | 1100–1300 HV | Moderate |
| Thermal Conductivity | 15–20 W/m·K | Acceptable |
| CTE | 2.6–3.0 ×10⁻⁶/K | Low expansion |
| Max Service Temp | 1000–1200 °C | In air or inert |
| Porosity | 10–25% | Not fully dense |
✅ 2.Sintered Si₃N₄ (SSN)
Made by pressureless sintering Si₃N₄ powder with additives (like Y₂O₃, MgO, Al₂O₃). Generally offers the best mechanical properties and is widely used. Sialons (Si-Al-O-N alloys) are a subset of SSN formed when aluminum-containing additives are used.
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 3.15–3.25 g/cm³ | Near full density |
| Flexural Strength | 700–900 MPa | High structural strength |
| Fracture Toughness | 5–7 MPa·m½ | Good resistance to cracks |
| Hardness | 1400–1600 HV | High hardness |
| Thermal Conductivity | 20–30 W/m·K | Moderate heat transfer |
| CTE | 2.8–3.2 ×10⁻⁶/K | Low thermal stress |
| Max Service Temp | 1200–1300 °C | Air/inert |
| Porosity | <1% | Fully dense |
✅ 3.Hot-Pressed Si₃N₄ (HPSN)
Produced by pressing Si₃N₄ powder with additives at high temperature and pressure. Results in a fully dense material with excellent mechanical properties, but is typically limited to simple shapes requiring expensive diamond grinding. Used for cutting tools.
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 3.25–3.28 g/cm³ | Very dense |
| Flexural Strength | 800–1000 MPa | Higher than SSN |
| Fracture Toughness | 6–8 MPa·m½ | Very good |
| Hardness | 1500–1700 HV | High |
| Thermal Conductivity | 25–35 W/m·K | Good |
| CTE | 2.7–3.0 ×10⁻⁶/K | Stable |
| Max Service Temp | 1200–1300 °C | Structural parts |
| Porosity | <0.5% | Low defect |
✅ 4.Sintered Reaction-Bonded Silicon Nitride (SRBSN)
Reaction-bonded Si₃N₄ plus secondary sintering; lower cost than SSN but stronger than RBSN; good balance of performance and economics.
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.9–3.1 g/cm³ | Between RBSN and SSN |
| Flexural Strength | 500–700 MPa | Improved over RBSN |
| Fracture Toughness | 4–6 MPa·m½ | Balanced |
| Hardness | 1300–1500 HV | Medium-high |
| Thermal Conductivity | 20–25 W/m·K | Stable |
| CTE | 2.8–3.2 ×10⁻⁶/K | Low |
| Max Service Temp | 1200 °C | General structural use |
| Porosity | 1–5% | Some closed pores |
✅ 5. Gas Pressure Sintered Silicon Nitride (GPSN)
Sintered under high nitrogen gas pressure (1-10 MPa, ~2000°C). Inhibits decomposition and promotes grain growth, leading to high-density (>99%) and high-toughness ceramics.
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 3.20–3.26 g/cm³ | Nearly full density |
| Flexural Strength | 800–950 MPa | Reliable |
| Fracture Toughness | 6–8 MPa·m½ | High strength |
| Hardness | 1500–1650 HV | High |
| Thermal Conductivity | 25–30 W/m·K | Moderate-high |
| CTE | 2.8–3.0 ×10⁻⁶/K | Stable |
| Max Service Temp | 1200–1300 °C | High-stress parts |
| Porosity | <1% | Low |
✅ 6.Hot Isostatic Pressed Si₃N₄ (HIP Si₃N₄)
Highest density and strength among Si₃N₄ types; minimal porosity; ideal for bearings, aerospace, turbine and other critical structural parts,but at a higher cost.
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 3.25–3.28 g/cm³ | Highest |
| Flexural Strength | 900–1100 MPa | Best among Si₃N₄ |
| Fracture Toughness | 7–10 MPa·m½ | Exceptional |
| Hardness | 1500–1700 HV | Very high |
| Thermal Conductivity | 25–35 W/m·K | Stable |
| CTE | 2.8–3.0 ×10⁻⁶/K | Low stress |
| Max Service Temp | 1300–1400 °C | Premium grade |
| Porosity | <0.1% | Near-zero defects |
China Silicon Nitride Ceramic Products
ADCERAX manufactures a full range of silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) ceramic products, including tubes, plates, rings, balls, bearing components, and custom structural parts. Each product is engineered for high-temperature strength, thermal shock resistance, and compatibility with molten metals and corrosive environments.
Silicon nitride tubes provide excellent thermal shock resistance and corrosion stability, ideal for use in aluminum casting, molten metal handling, furnace thermocouples, and high-temperature gas or liquid delivery systems.
Silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) substrates combine high mechanical strength and low thermal expansion, widely used in power electronic modules, IGBT packaging, LED metal base circuits, and automotive inverter systems.
Silicon nitride bearing balls and races offer low friction, electrical insulation, and high-speed stability, making them suitable for spindle motors, wind turbines, aerospace mechanisms, and precision machinery.
Silicon nitride balls are used in high-speed and high-load bearings due to their low density, electrical insulation, and resistance to wear and corrosion — ideal for wind turbines, machine tool spindles, aerospace mechanisms, and hybrid ceramic bearings.
Silicon nitride balls are used in high-speed and high-load bearings due to their low density, electrical insulation, and resistance to wear and corrosion — ideal for wind turbines, machine tool spindles, aerospace mechanisms, and hybrid ceramic bearings.
Custom silicon nitride components are engineered for complex shapes and demanding applications — including nozzles, valve seats, fixture plates, and structural spacers — where metal failure occurs due to heat, corrosion, or electrical insulation limits.
💡 Built for Heat. Built for Precision. Built for You — Silicon Nitride Ceramics by ADCERAX.
From riser tubes and bearing balls to custom Si₃N₄ parts, we deliver high-strength, thermal-shock-resistant ceramics that keep your equipment running when metal fails. Ready to upgrade your system? Get a custom quote today👉
Silicon Nitride Ceramics Applications
Boron nitride (BN) crucibles are widely used for high-purity metal melting, crystal growth, evaporation coating, and vacuum thermal processing. Their non-wetting, chemically inert and thermally stable properties make them ideal for handling reactive metals such as Ti, Al, Si, and precious alloys in vacuum, inert gas or high-temperature environments.
Aluminum & Magnesium Casting
Application: Riser tubes, thermocouple protection tubes, filter pipes in molten aluminum/magnesium handling.
🧩 Key Advantages of silicon nitride ceramic in Casting :
- Non-wetting to molten aluminum (<0.1 mm adhesion after 72h at 750 °C), preventing clogging and oxide buildup.
- Maintains strength up to 1,000 °C without deformation while quartz or alumina fail after 600–700 °C thermal cycling.
- Service life 3–5× longer than alumina tubes (8–12 weeks vs 2–3 weeks in continuous casting lines).
🔹Problem Solved:
- A Spanish aluminum foundry reported thermocouple tube failure every 14 days using alumina, causing 6–8 hours of downtime each time (≈€4,000 loss). After switching to Si₃N₄ tubes, replacement interval extended to 6 weeks, and production interruptions dropped by over 60%.
Bearing / Wind Turbine / CNC Spindle
Application: Si₃N₄ bearing balls, hybrid bearings, spindle support rings.
🧩 Key Advantages of ceramic silicon nitride in bearing and CNC spindle :
- Density 3.2 g/cm³ (40% lighter than steel), reducing spindle vibration and lowering frictional heat generation.
- Survives >10,000 rpm and 300 °C without lubrication failure, while steel bearings seize above 150 °C.
- Anti-electrical pitting — 10⁸ Ω·m insulation prevents EDM damage in motorized spindles and wind turbines.
🔹Problem Solved:
- A German spindle manufacturer experienced electrical pitting in steel bearings within 6 months, causing €12,000 repair cost per failure. After using Si₃N₄ hybrid bearings, MTBF increased from 4,000 h to >12,000 h, and power efficiency improved by 3–5%.
Industrial Furnace & Heating Systems
Application: Heater protection tubes, kiln furniture, support plates in carburizing furnaces and thermal processing equipment.
🧩 Key Advantages of ceramic si3n4 in high-temperature industrial:
- Withstands rapid thermal shock: >800 °C to room temperature water quench for 20 cycles with no cracks.
- Low thermal expansion (2.8 × 10⁻⁶/K) prevents warping or sealing failures during heating-cooling cycles.
- 2–3× longer lifespan than alumina protection tubes in high-carbon atmospheres or salt-bath furnaces.
🔹Problem Solved:
- A US heat-treatment company reported alumina heater tubes cracking every 3 weeks due to rapid cooling during maintenance. After replacing with Si₃N₄ tubes, tube life extended to over 10 weeks, reducing shutdowns from 17/year to 6/year.
Power Electronics / IGBT / EV Inverters
Application: Si₃N₄ AMB / DBC substrates for IGBT, SiC MOSFET, EV inverter modules.
🧩 Key Advantages of silicon nitride ceramic si3n4 in power electronics field:
- Thermal conductivity up to 90 W/m·K (with metallized layers), 3× higher than alumina substrates.
- Fracture toughness >7 MPa·m½ reduces substrate cracking during ultrasonic wire bonding or thermal cycling.
- CTE closely matches silicon chips (2.8 × 10⁻⁶/K), reducing solder fatigue and extending module lifespan.
🔹Problem Solved:
- A Japanese EV inverter manufacturer experienced solder joint fatigue in Al₂O₃ substrates after 5,000 cycles (–40 °C to 150 °C). Si₃N₄ AMB substrates increased thermal cycle reliability to >20,000 cycles, reducing module failure rate by 70%.
Custom Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) Ceramic Manufacturer
ADCERAX is a silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) ceramics factory in China, specializing in custom-made Si₃N₄ components based on your drawings or samples. We machine complex geometries, tight tolerances, stepped bores, threaded sections, and assembly-ready parts for high-temperature and high-wear applications. Stable batch production and flexible order quantities are supported, with typical delivery in 3–9 weeks depending on design requirements.
Customization Options
Extra-large / Extra-small diameters, non-standard thicknesses, and ultra-long / ultra-short lengths.
Provide higher - level dimensional accuracy and concentricity control than the standard.
Flanges, steps, threads, drilling holes, grooves, etc.
Adjust the material according to the application requirements.
Polish and grind the surface to achieve a specific surface roughness.
Customization Process
Send us your drawing, CAD file, or physical sample with material grade, dimensions, tolerances, and quantity. Our engineers will evaluate the design and provide a detailed quotation with lead time and pricing.
Once the quote is approved, we proceed with sample prototyping (1–50 pcs) if needed, for testing and validation.
After sample approval or direct confirmation, we begin batch manufacturing using CNC machining, sintering, and polishing. All parts undergo dimensional checks, material purity testing, and surface finish inspection.
Finished products are securely packed and shipped via DHL/FedEx/UPS or your preferred method. We support global delivery with full documentation.
Trusted Silicon Nitride Ceramics Supplier with Precision Manufacturing
Silicon nitride ceramic si3n4 is a high-strength, hard-to-machine ceramic that requires diamond or CBN tooling for precision. ADCERAX provides full-process manufacturing—from Si₃N₄ forming to CNC finishing—ensuring tight tolerances and stable quality for industrial applications.
Si3N4 Ceramic Processing Capacity
🔷 Precision Forming & Sintering: Raw Si₃N₄ powders are pressed and sintered (pressureless, HIP, or GPSN) to achieve near-net shapes with high density and minimal porosity.
🔷 High-Precision CNC Machining: Diamond grinding, ultrasonic machining, and multi-axis CNC systems enable machining of holes, grooves, threads, slots, and complex contours within ±0.02–0.05 mm tolerance.
🔷 Efficient & Stable Production: Batch-controlled processing minimizes deformation and cracking, ensuring repeatable quality for both prototypes and bulk orders.
🔷 Surface Finishing & Customization: We provide surface grinding, polishing, edge chamfering, step and thread finishing — suitable for parts used in bearings, riser tubes, heater protection tubes, and structural components.
Si3N4 Ceramic Manufacturing Strengths
Silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) offers outstanding mechanical strength, non-wetting behavior to molten metals, and resistance to thermal shock, making it one of the most reliable advanced ceramics in industrial environments.:
Reduced Metal Reaction & Contamination
Si₃N₄ does not react with molten aluminum, magnesium, or non-ferrous alloys — preventing adhesion, oxidation buildup, and maintaining melt purity.Extended Service Life
High wear resistance and chemical stability minimize erosion and cracking, reducing the frequency of replacing riser tubes, bearings, or thermocouple protection tubes.Improved Process Efficiency
Provides smooth metal flow, stable thermal control, and fewer production interruptions, enhancing overall casting, extrusion, or heating system yield.
Why Choose ADCERAX for Your Silicon Nitride Ceramics Supplier?
Choosing the right silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) ceramics factory directly affects the performance, stability, and cost of your equipment. ADCERAX combines advanced Si₃N₄ materials, precision machining, and engineering support — making us a trusted partner for high-temperature, high-load, and high-precision applications.
Factory Direct & Competitive Pricing
Direct manufacturer eliminating intermediaries for cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
Expert Engineering Support
20+ years of B2B experience providing unparalleled technical support and collaborative design.
Flexible Customization
Agile manufacturing for small-batch customization and rapid prototyping capabilities.
Quality Control
Stringent quality measures from raw material inspection to final product testing.
24/7 Technical Support
24-hour response guarantee with dedicated support for global clientele.
500+ Satisfied Customers
Trusted by global customers for advanced ceramic materials and precision components.
Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) Ceramic Products Quality & Certifications
FAQ
Silicon nitride outperforms alumina and zirconia in critical engineering applications due to its balanced properties. Below is a direct comparison of the three materials:
| Property | Silicon Nitride（Si3N4） | Alumina (Al₂O₃) | Zirconia (ZrO₂) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fracture Toughness | 6-7 MPa·m1/2 | 3-4 MPa·m1/2 | 5-6 MPa·m1/2 |
| Max. Operating Temp. | 1,400°C (no degradation) | 1,600°C (brittle above 1,200°C) | 1,200°C (phase instability risk) |
| Thermal Expansion | 3.2 × 10-6/°C (low, resists thermal shock) | 8.1 × 10-6/°C | 10.5 × 10-6/°C |
| Density | 3.2 g/cm³ | 3.9 g/cm³ | 6.0 g/cm³ |
| Key Applications |
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Why Silicon Nitride Wins:
silicon nitride ceramic si3n4 offers a unique combination of high fracture toughness, low thermal expansion, and outstanding thermal shock resistance. Unlike alumina or zirconia, it can withstand rapid temperature changes and high mechanical loads simultaneously, making it ideal for applications such as riser tubes, spindle bearings, and turbocharger rotors.
Manufacturing Silicon Nitride ceramic is a complex process, generally utilizing powder metallurgy techniques. Here's a simplified process:
Powder Preparation: The process begins with high-purity silicon nitride powder, often mixed with additives to aid in processing and achieve desired properties.
Shaping: This mixture is then shaped into the desired form using various techniques. Common methods include pressing, injection molding, and slip casting.
Sintering: The shaped "green" parts are then sintered. This crucial step involves heating the components to high temperatures in a controlled atmosphere (often nitrogen or vacuum) to fuse the powder particles, creating a dense, strong ceramic.
Post-Processing: After sintering, components may undergo post-processing steps. These can include grinding, polishing, or machining to achieve precise dimensions and the desired surface finish.
Advanced Techniques: Variations like hot pressing and gas pressure sintering offer advantages for specific applications, enabling the creation of complex shapes and highly engineered microstructures.
Yes. Brazing with active silver-copper alloys, metallization (Mo-Mn), or direct copper bonding (DCB/AMB) can be used for joining Si₃N₄ to metals or copper layers in electronic modules. Proper surface treatment and thermal expansion matching are required to avoid cracking.
Silicon nitride ceramics are produced using different forming and densification technologies. Each process affects density, strength, porosity, and cost — which in turn determines where the material can be used.
| Process Type | How It’s Made | Density & Strength | Cost Level | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RBSN (Reaction-Bonded Silicon Nitride) | Silicon powder reacts with nitrogen gas to form Si₃N₄ at high temperature | Medium density, higher porosity, moderate strength | ★ Low | Burner nozzles, kiln furniture, furnace parts, insulating sleeves |
| SSN (Pressureless Sintered Si₃N₄) | Si₃N₄ powder + sintering aids pressed and sintered in a furnace | High density, good mechanical strength | ★★ Medium | General structural parts, wear parts, thermocouple tubes |
| HPSN (Hot-Pressed Si₃N₄) | Powder compacted under uniaxial pressure + heat | High density, higher strength, limited shapes | ★★ Medium–High | Cutting tools, mechanical seals, sliding wear parts |
| GPSN (Gas Pressure Sintered Si₃N₄) | SSN parts further densified under high nitrogen pressure | Very high density, strong and reliable | ★★★ Medium–High | Bearing balls, riser tubes, high-load structural components |
| HIP Si₃N₄ (Hot Isostatic Pressed Si₃N₄) | Fully sintered parts densified in all directions using high gas pressure | Highest density, toughness & durability | ★★★★ High | Aerospace bearings, turbine components, precision spindle parts, critical load applications |
✔ Performance Impact Summary:
Higher densification (GPSN, HIP) = higher strength, lower porosity, better fracture toughness, and longer service life.
Lower densification (RBSN) = lower strength but lower cost and suitable for simple or non-load-bearing applications.
ADCERAX supports both prototype and mass production. We accept 2D drawings (PDF, DWG) and 3D models (STEP, STP, IGS). Custom shapes such as stepped tubes, threaded rings, slotted plates, nozzles, and complex bearing housings are machinable with 3–9 weeks lead time.
You can buy silicon nitride ceramics for high-temperature applications directly from ADCERAX, a factory specializing in Si₃N₄ tubes, rings, balls and custom parts. We offer factory pricing, precision machining to your drawings, and materials that withstand molten metals, thermal shock, and continuous high heat. Send your requirements or CAD files, and we’ll provide a tailored solution and quotation quickly.
To receive a quote for ceramic Si₃N₄ components, simply send your drawing or specifications (size, tolerances, quantity, and application). Our engineering team will evaluate the design and provide pricing and lead time. If the order volume is sufficient, we can also offer discount ceramic Si3N4 options based on batch production.
You can source directly from ADCERAX, a China silicon nitride ceramic supplier that not only provides wholesale Si₃N₄ tubes, balls, rings and custom components, but also offers engineering support, drawing evaluation, and application guidance for casting, bearings and thermal systems.
Yes, ADCERAX exports silicon nitride ceramics to North America, Germany, Japan, Italy, Spain and other industrial countries. We provide export packaging, customs documentation, HS codes, and work with DHL/FedEx or freight forwarders for bulk shipments.
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