VALVA Tantalum valves are the ultimate solution for industrial processes involving the most aggressive corrosive media. Known for its extraordinary chemical inertness, Tantalum provides a level of protection that exceeds even zirconium and high-nickel alloys. When your process demands absolute reliability in the presence of concentrated strong acids, Tantalum is the definitive choice.
Unrivaled Chemical Stability
Tantalum’s performance is characterized by its ability to form a stable, protective oxide film, making it virtually immune to many of the most destructive chemicals used in modern industry:
- The “Acid King”: Tantalum is completely resistant to Hydrochloric Acid (HCl), Nitric Acid (HNO3), and Phosphoric Acid (H3PO4) at almost all concentrations and temperatures.
- Sulfuric Acid Excellence: It remains inert in hot, concentrated Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4) environments where most other metals would dissolve instantly.
- Organic & Bromine Resistance: Excellent stability in organic acids, bromine, and bromine-containing compounds.
- Biocompatibility: Tantalum’s inert nature also makes it suitable for specialized high-purity pharmaceutical synthesis.
Critical Selection & Safety
Despite its incredible resistance, Tantalum has specific limitations that must be managed by expert engineering:
- Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) Warning: Tantalum is rapidly attacked by hydrofluoric acid and should never be used in media containing even trace amounts of fluorides.
- Alkaline Sensitivity: It is susceptible to corrosion by strong alkaline solutions and molten alkalis.
- Hydrogen Embrittlement: In certain reducing environments, Tantalum can absorb hydrogen, leading to brittleness. VALVA provides specialized surface treatments to mitigate this risk where necessary.
Applications in High-Value Processing
- Fine Chemicals: Production of high-purity acids and complex chemical reagents.
- Steel Pickling: Handling high-temperature spent acids in metal treatment lines.
- Pharmaceuticals: Ensuring zero metallic contamination in sensitive drug synthesis.
Material Grades & Standards
We utilize premium tantalum grades for our valve internals and linings:
| Grade | Description | UNS Designation |
| Pure Tantalum | 99.9% Purity for maximum corrosion resistance | R05200 / R05400 |
| Ta-2.5W | Tantalum with 2.5% Tungsten for higher strength | R05252 |
| Ta-10W | Tantalum with 10% Tungsten for high-temperature strength | R05255 |