There are many interesting questions that can be asked about tungsten carbide. Due to the popularity of tungsten rings, which are now one of the top choices for wedding bands and men’s jewellery, it is just understandable why people would want to know more about this metal.
Tungsten carbide rings, or simply tungsten rings, are popular because of their superior toughness and durability. A lot harder than traditional metals, tungsten rings are scratch-resistant. And because of the properties of tungsten carbide, tungsten rings also resist fading, tarnishing, rusting, and corrosion.
These qualities make tungsten rings a great choice for people who value longevity as well as low-maintenance in jewellery.
But despite its popularity, there are still many things unknown about tungsten carbide. For one, is tungsten carbide conductive?
Does tungsten carbide conduct electricity?
The short answer to this question is yes, tungsten carbide does conduct electricity. With regards to electrical conductivity, tungsten carbide is in the same range as tool steel and carbon steel. Compared to iron and nickel, tungsten conducts electricity currents quite well, and it can be used in manufacturing circuits and other electronic parts.
But do tungsten carbide rings conduct electricity?
In the industrial context, tungsten carbide can conduct electricity. However, when talking about jewellery, because it is powdered and moulded to form a ring, tungsten carbide takes the form of cemented carbide. When this happens, tungsten carbide is no longer metallic but instead becomes ceramic. Therefore, tungsten carbide rings do not conduct electricity.
Because of this, there is no reason to be concerned when wearing a tungsten ring. It is even safer than traditional rings made of precious metals because it has lower conductivity.
It is still important to note that, for your safety, you should always opt for genuine jewellery-grade tungsten carbide rings. These high-quality rings are made with nickel binder instead of cobalt, which gives the rings their scratch-resistant and wear-resistant properties. Also, cobalt can trigger skin irritations and allergic reactions.
To be certain about the genuinity of your tungsten carbide ring, it is best to get it from a trusted and reputable seller that offers a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.
Tungsten Carbide’s Electrical Properties
Tungsten carbide is a moderate electrical conductor. It conducts electricity better than a ceramic insulator but significantly less than metals like copper, gold, or silver. In technical terms, tungsten carbide has an electrical resistivity of approximately 20 micro-ohm centimetres, compared to copper at 1.7 micro-ohm centimetres.
For practical purposes, a tungsten ring will conduct electricity if you touch a live wire. However, no metal ring should be considered safe around electrical currents.
Working with Electricity While Wearing a Tungsten Ring
Electricians and anyone working with live circuits should remove all metal rings before working, regardless of the metal. This includes gold, silver, titanium, and tungsten. A metal ring can create a short circuit, cause electrical burns, or conduct enough current to be dangerous.
If you regularly work with electricity, consider wearing a silicone ring during working hours and switching to your tungsten ring outside of work.
Thermal Conductivity of Tungsten
Tungsten carbide has moderate thermal conductivity, meaning it transfers heat reasonably well. Your ring may feel cool when you first put it on, but it will warm to body temperature within minutes.
Compared to other ring metals, tungsten sits in the middle. Gold and silver conduct heat more effectively, while titanium and ceramic conduct less. In everyday wear, the thermal properties of tungsten are unlikely to cause discomfort in any normal temperature conditions.
Shop Related Tungsten Rings
Discover our range of tungsten rings:
- Brick Pattern Matte Brushed Silver 8mm Tungsten Wedding Band
- 8mm Mens Black Brushed Tungsten Ring with Polished Green Interior
- 8mm Dome Brushed Silver Tungsten Wedding Band with Blue Inner Face