Abrasion Resistance Ratios of Nozzle Materials

Wear resistance is simply the ability of a material to resist wear, which is the process of wearing through friction. The wear resistance of the nozzle material is mainly reflected in the wear of the nozzle hole by the impacting water. Dripping stone wear is the best description.

Nozzle wear is typically characterized by an increase in nozzle capacity, followed by a general deterioration of the spray pattern. Flat fan spray nozzles with elliptical orifices experience a narrowing of the spray pattern. In other spray pattern types, the distribution within the spray pattern deteriorates without substantially changing the coverage area.

The increase in nozzle capacity can sometimes be recognized by a decrease in system operating pressure.

Materials having harder surfaces generally provide longer wear life. The chart provides standard abrasion resistance ratios for different materials to help you determine if you should consider a different material for your nozzles, orifice inserts and/or spray tips.

Materials that offer better corrosion resistance are also available. However, the rate of chemical corrosion on specific nozzle materials is dependent on the solution being sprayed. The corrosive properties of the liquid being sprayed, its percent concentration and temperature, as well as the corrosion resistance of the nozzle material to the chemical must all be considered.

Knowing the wear resistance of the material can better select the appropriate nozzle material and reduce the purchase cost.

Materials of Spray Nozzles	Abrasion Resistance Ratio
Aluminum	1
Brass	1
Polypropylene	1-2
Steel	1.5-2
Monel	2-3
Stainless steel	4-6
Hastelloy	4-6
Hardened stainless steel	10-15
Stellite	10-15
Silicon carbide (nitride bonded)	90-130
Ceramics	90-200
Carbides	180-250
Synthetic ruby or sapphire	600-2000