Metallurgy Question:

Tungsten has high tensile strength and good creep resistance. At temperatures above 2205 OC (4000 OF), tungsten has twice the tensile strength of the strongest tantalum alloys and is only 10% denser. However, its high density, poor low-temperature ductility, and strong reactivity in air limit its usefulness. Maximum service temperatures for tungsten range from 1925 to 2480 "C (3500 to 4500 OF), but surface protection is required for use in air at these temperatures.

Wrought tungsten (as cold worked) has high strength, directional mechanical properties, and some room-temperature toughness. However, re crystallization occurs rapidly above 1370 "C (2500 OF) and produces a grain structure that is crack sensitive at all temperatures.