Nichrome Density, Specific Heat and Electrical Resistivity
Typical physical properties of NiCr 80/20
Nichrome is a family of nickel-chromium resistance-heating alloys, not one universal composition. For a common 80Ni-20Cr class alloy, published producer data typically lists a density near 8.30 g/cm³ and electrical resistivity near 1.09 Ω·mm²/m at 20°C. Specific heat capacity is temperature-dependent: a representative value is about 0.46 kJ/(kg·K) at 20°C and it increases as temperature rises.
These figures are useful for preliminary mass, resistance and thermal calculations, but they are not acceptance limits for every alloy sold as nichrome. Chemistry, product form, cold work, heat treatment and producer practice can affect the data. Use the governing specification and certificate for final engineering calculations.
Why density and specific heat matter
Density is used to estimate component mass from wire length or strip volume. Specific heat helps estimate the energy required for a temperature change. Electrical resistivity determines resistance from conductor length and cross-sectional area. A heating element calculation must also account for resistance change with temperature, heat transfer, surface loading, cycling, atmosphere and permissible element temperature.
A nominal room-temperature resistance does not by itself define safe operating performance. Coil pitch, support spacing, terminal design, contaminants and enclosure ventilation can materially change service life. The equipment designer remains responsible for the finished-element design.
Choosing wire or strip
Evek LLC reviews requirements for nichrome wire, ribbon, strip and other available forms. Send the recognized grade or nominal chemistry, product form, wire diameter or strip thickness and width, required resistance per unit length if applicable, temper, coil weight, quantity and certificate requirements.
If the element is being replaced, include the original alloy designation, cold resistance, operating voltage and power, element dimensions, maximum temperature, atmosphere and duty cycle. This helps identify whether the request is a direct material replacement or requires engineering review.
Related nichrome products
Review the nichrome alloy catalog, NiCr 80/20 wire and NiCr 80/20 strip.
Request a U.S. quote
Evek LLC serves customers throughout the United States. Typical delivery is 2-3 weeks, subject to grade, form, size, quantity and availability.
Contact Evek LLC with the complete requirement and U.S. delivery ZIP code.