MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

I.  PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION

Manufacturer/Supplier:

ESPI Metals

1050 Benson Way, Ashland, OR 97520

Toll Free (800) 638-2581 * Fax (541) 488-8313

E-Mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Product Name:         Kovar

II.  HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:      Iron                  Nickel               Cobalt             Chromium

CAS Number:                      1309-37-1         7440-02-0         7440-48-4        7440-47-3

Percent (%):                      53                    29                    17                    0.2

OSHA/PEL:                         10.0 mg/m³ *    1.0 mg/m³        0.1 mg/m³       1.0 mg/m³

ACGIH/TLV:                        5.0 mg/m³        1.0 mg/m³        0.1 mg/m³       0.5 mg/m³

* These substances are regulated in their oxide form.

III.  PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                 High

Melting Point:                2400 to 2800 ^oF

Specific Gravity:           7.5 to 8.5 

Solubility in H₂O:           Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:  Bright, gray or black metal, no odor.

IV.  FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point (Method used):  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

Flammable Limits:  Upper:  N/A       Lower:  N/A

Extinguishing Media:  Use suitable extinguishing media for surrounding materials and type of fire.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  Wear full-face, self-contained breathing apparatus with full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazard:  N/A

V.  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

This material is generally not considered hazardous in the form shipped (solid bars, billets, rods, wire, etc.,) However, if your process involves grinding, melting, welding, cutting, or any other process that causes a release of dust or fume, hazardous levels of dust or fume of the constituents of this alloy could be generated.  The following is a list of potential health effects for hazardous elements that are possibly contaminated in this alloy.  Please refer to "Hazardous Ingredients" section for a list of those specified elements contained in this particular alloy.

Health Effects:

Iron Oxide:  Repeated exposure to iron oxide fume over a period of years may cause X-Ray changes of the lungs, but does not cause  the exposed person to become ill.

Nickel:  Fumes are respiratory irritants and may cause respiratory disease.  Skin contact can also cause an allergic skin rash.  Nickel and its compounds have been reported to cancer of the lungs and sinuses.

Cobalt:  Fume or dust causes irritation of the nose and throat and may cause an allergic skin rash.  Also has been reported to cause respiratory disease with symptoms ranging from cough and shortness of breath to permanent disability and death.  The symptoms frequently go away when exposure has stopped, but sometimes the symptoms progress after exposure has ceased.

Chromium:  Ferrochrome alloys have been associated with lung changes in workers exposed to these alloys.

Carcinogenic References:  Chromium, cobalt-chromium alloys, and nickel have been identified  by the international agency for  research on cancer (IARC) and/or the National Toxicology program (NTP) as potential cancer causing agents.

Exposure Routes:  Exposure to specialty steel alloys occurs primarily from inhalation of dust or fumes.  However, constituents of these alloys may cause effects directly upon the skin or eyes.  Certain constituents may also be harmful if swallowed.

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove to fresh air.  If breathing does not improve, administer oxygen and contact a physician.

INGESTION:  If large amounts are ingested, induce vomiting only if conscious and contact a physician. 

SKIN:  Flush with water and wash with mild soap and water.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

EYE:  Irrigate with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.

VI.  REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Strong acids or caustic soda.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Metallic dust or fumes.

Hazardous Polymerization:  Will not occur.

VII.  SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to be Taken in Case Material is Released or Spilled:  Scoop or vacuum up spill using a high efficiency particulate absolute filter.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  In accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.  SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  If your process causes a release of dust or fume in excess of the permissible exposure limit, NIOSH  approved respirators for protection against airborne dust or fumes should be worn.  Respirators should be used in accordance with 29CFR 1910.134.

Ventilation:  If your process causes a release of dust or fume, use local and general exhaust ventilation to keep airborne concentration of dust or fumes below the TLV.

Protective Equipment:  Gloves and barrier creams may be necessary to prevent skin sensitization and dermatitis.  If your process  involves grinding or any other action that causes the release of dust or fumes, approved safety glasses or goggles should be worn.

X.  SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in a cool, dry area.  Wash thoroughly after handling.

Other Precautions:  Wet machine or grind with lubricating, cutting or grinding fluids.  Do not breath dust or fumes.  Wear protective eye wear when machining.

Work Practices:  Implement engineering and work practice controls to reduce and maintain concentration of exposure at low levels.  Use good housekeeping and sanitation practices.  Do not use tobacco or food in work area.  Wash thoroughly before eating and smoking.  Do not blow dust off clothing or skin with compressed air.  Maintain eyewash capable of sustained flushing, safety drench shower and facilities for washing.

DOT Regulations:

Hazard Class:          None

The above information is believed to be correct, but does not purport to be all inclusive and shall be used only as a guide.  ESPI shall not be held liable for any damage resulting from handling or from contact with the above product.

Issued by:             S. Dierks

Date:                    December 2005