This section provides an overview for fine ceramics as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 28 fine ceramic manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked fine ceramic companies as of November, 2024: 1.Nishimura Advanced Ceramics Co., Ltd., 2.SHINAGAWA REFRACTORIES CO., LTD., 3.NGK SPARK PLUG CO.,LTD..
Table of Contents
Postdoctoral researcher, conducting research on the production of cathode composite particles for solid-state batteries in the Equipment Engineering Group of Osaka Prefecture University.
Belongs to the Resource and Energy Recycling Laboratory, Nagaoka University of Technology, and conducts research on the development of DDR-type zeolite membranes for CO2 separation and the capture of CO2 from digestion gas generated from sewage treatment plants.
https://researchmap.jp/eiji-hayakawa
Thesis
https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11080623
http://www.ijcea.org/index.php?m=content&c=index&a=show&catid=109&id=1177
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1387181119305529?via%3Dihub
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S138358661833154X?via%3Dihub
Materials in the world can be broadly classified into three categories: metallic materials, organic polymer materials, and ceramics. Among these, ceramics are characterized by their high hardness and thermal and chemical stability. Conventional ceramics are called old ceramics and are formed by mixing or firing natural minerals in glass, cement, ceramics, etc. A fine ceramic is made based on chemical processes.
Fine ceramics are defined by their superior mechanical, electronic, physical, and chemical properties, as well as enhanced functionality compared to traditional ceramics, due to precise control of their chemical composition, crystal structure, and particle shape in the manufacturing process. Fine ceramic is said to have originated in 1940 when the application of ceramics to industrial products and the development of new functions began to flourish.
Fine ceramics are used in a wide range of fields as structural, electronic, engineering, biological, and magnetic materials. For example, they are used in electronic components, industrial equipment, medical devices, and other equipment necessary for manufacturing operations.
In semiconductor and liquid crystal manufacturing equipment, wafers, which are used as elements, are processed using fine ceramics to secure them to the equipment and polish the surfaces.
In medical equipment, fine ceramics are used for surgical instruments, implant parts, and X-ray insulating parts for radiation equipment.
In addition to the above, fine ceramics are applied in information equipment, environmental, energy, aerospace, and electronics industry components.
Fine ceramics are difficult to define but are often defined as "mainly non-metallic inorganic materials" with new functions or properties that are manufactured by precisely controlling their chemical composition, crystal structure, microstructure, grain boundaries, shape, and manufacturing process.
The manufacturing process for fine ceramics begins with the preparation of raw materials, followed by granulation, molding, raw processing, firing, secondary processing, and inspection.
Fine ceramics are made by mixing raw material powders that are more granular or purer than ordinary ceramics, and then using precision equipment to control the structure at the micro to nano level. Fine ceramics are especially useful inside industrial equipment, where heat can easily build up because their thermal properties are superior to those of metals and organic materials.
On the other hand, the disadvantage of fine ceramics is that they are brittle and difficult to process. Because they are formed from powdered raw materials, even a simple drop from a high place can cause them to crack with the impact. This also makes it difficult to process Fine Ceramics into other shapes once they have been formed into one shape.
Fine ceramics can be broadly classified into two types. The first is engineering ceramics, to which a sintering process is added. These ceramics can only be ground and polished, but they have excellent wear resistance. Materials include alumina, silicon nitride, and zirconia.
On the other hand, machinable ceramics are those to which no sintering process is added, and although their strength is weaker than engineering ceramics, they can be machined. Fine ceramics include Hortobell, Macerite, and Makor.
Fine ceramics are also available in a variety of materials, each of which has different properties. Here are some typical ceramic materials.
Alumina is aluminum oxide and is the most common ceramic material. It is characterized by excellent electrical insulation, wear resistance, heat resistance, and chemical stability while being extremely inexpensive.
Zirconia has excellent strength and toughness and is sometimes used in combination with metals because its thermal expansion coefficient is close to that of metals. It is also used in blades such as scissors, which is difficult to do with ceramics.
Silicon carbide is a man-made compound that does not exist naturally; it has excellent strength even at temperatures as high as 1500°C. It is also lightweight and highly corrosion-resistant. Because of these characteristics, it is used as a heat-resistant material in applications such as heater peripheral parts.
There is a wide variety of other types of fine ceramics, including special ceramics such as porous ceramics and transparent ceramics. It is important to select fine ceramics with appropriate materials and properties for the environment in which they will be used.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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Nishimura Advanced Ceramics Co., Ltd., founded in Japan, is a manufacturer of ceramics including kneading materials, forming, firing, and other processing to finish products. The company's product portfolio includes ceramic circuit boards, ceramic for machine parts and pump parts, optical products, temperature sensor parts, and lighting apparatuses. It also offers various firing techniques, including reduction, oxidation, and alternative firing methods, to achieve unique glazes and finishes. It also collaborates with clients to produce custom ceramic products tailored to their specific design and functional requirements.
CoorsTek, Inc., founded in 1910, is a family-run manufacturer of technical ceramic material formulations with products such as acetabular liners, baffle chambers, carbon brushes for power, focal plane array components, and precision fixed gauges used in transportation, food & beverage, electronic, chemicals, and semiconductor industries. The company in Golden, CO, USA, has research & development, custom manufacturing, and design assistance capabilities. The company's CIO- Matt Mehlbrech, was awarded the 2023 Colorado ORDIE Award for CIO of the Year.
LECO Corporation, headquartered in St. Joseph, Michigan, has been a manufacturer and distributor of metallographic equipment since 1936. The company specializes in producing metallographic equipment, serving laboratories worldwide. Its product range includes the 832 and 828 Series Combustion systems for organic material analysis, the 836 Series Elemental Analyzer for inorganic materials, and the Pegasus BT GC-TOFMS Mass Spectrometer. These instruments cater to elemental analysis, thermal analysis, metallography, and mass spectrometry that are essential for laboratories. It holds several certifications, including ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and the ANSI/NCSL Z540-1-1994 for calibration, as well as an ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management.
Materion Advanced Materials Group, established in 1931, is a manufacturer of advanced materials based in the United States. The company specializes in producing a diverse range of quality materials tailored to industries such as aerospace, defense, electronics, and healthcare. The materials play a pivotal role in enabling cutting-edge technologies and applications. La Materion's aim is to empower industries with advanced materials that enhance performance, reliability, and sustainability. The company has a comprehensive portfolio and provides technical support.
San Jose Delta is a processor of beryllium oxide, and a manufacturer of alumina ceramic materials that was established in 1971 in Santa Clara, California, USA. The company primarily produces aluminum nitride for thermal conductivity or electrical insulation, quartz, and beryllium oxide for semiconductor parts or radio equipment. It also offers products made from high purity alumina oxide, including plates, bars, and rods. The company is ISO 9001:2015-certified, and chiefly serves clients in the industrial processing and manufacturing sectors.
PEI-Genesis, Inc., founded in 1946 by Murray Fisher and Bernie Bernbaum, is a supplier of electronic components headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company’s product portfolio includes connectors, cable assemblies, and sensors & controls from various manufacturers including Cinch Connectivity Solutions, Amphenol, Veam Connectors, Filconn, and ITT Cannon Connectors. It is AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015-certified and operates production facilities in South Bend, Indiana; Southampton, UK, and Zhuhai, China, from where it serves the aviation, energy, military, industrial, and medical sectors.
Aremco Products, Inc. is a manufacturer and distributor of high-temperature solutions founded in 1965. Based in Valley Cottage, New York, the company specializes in the production of coatings, sealants, adhesives, and other compounds designed to perform at temperatures of up to 3,200°F. The company's product portfolio includes technical ceramics with high thermal resistance and conductivity, as well as equipment like SMT boards, solar cells, and hybrid circuits. These supply clients in aerospace and defense, metallurgy, electronics, semiconductors, and chemical processing.
Kyocera International is a manufacturer of semiconductor ceramic parts established in 1969 and based in California, United States. It manufactures semiconductor packaging, automotive components, kitchen tools, industrial ceramics, and liquid crystal displays. It caters to the communications, automotive, environment, medical, and healthcare industries. Its product market covers several regions, like Africa, America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. The company acquired several certifications, such as ISO/IEC 15408, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 27001 certifications.
Saint-Gobain Coating Solutions is based in Avignon, France, and is a manufacturer and distributor of equipment and consumables related to industrial coatings that was established in the 1980s as a business unit of Saint-Gobain. The company’s product lineup includes consumables for thermal and flame sprays such as cords and rods, and Rokide brand ceramic rod flame spray systems. It also offers custom design, production, and equipment testing services. The company’s products are typically used in industrial processing and refining facilities.
Xiamen Innovacera Advanced Materials Co. Ltd. is a ceramic material manufacturer based in Xiamen, Fujian. Certified with ISO 9001: 2008 and ISO 14001:2004, the company offers various materials, including aluminum nitride, boron carbide, and boron nitride. Other ceramic material offerings include silicon carbide, silicon nitride, and zirconia-toughened alumina. The company also manufactures ceramic products, including alumina ceramic heaters, cutting blades, and filling pumps. These products find applications in various industries, including aerospace, research, and food processing. The company further extends its services to ceramic processing, offering rapid prototyping, grinding, and metallization to meet various industrial needs.
OHARA INC., established in 1935 and headquartered in Sagamihara-shi, Kanagawa, Japan, is a manufacturer of optical glass products. Its diverse product range encompasses optical glass for polished lenses, Low Tg Optical Glass, and glass ceramics. These materials find application across various industries, particularly in optical and electronic equipment. The company's products are utilized in a wide range of applications, making them an essential component in the manufacturing of quality lenses and optical systems.
Shinagawa Refractories Co., Ltd. (SRC) is a refractory manufacturer founded in 1875 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company produces a range of heat-resistant materials with industrial applications, including monolithic and shaped refractories, continuous casting and mold powders used in steelmaking, and ceramic fibers for lining furnaces. They also offer fine ceramics for cutting tools and electronic components, graphite electrodes, carbon products, and refractory anchors. SRC has a dedicated engineering and installation division that offers clients access to services like industrial furnace design and maintenance.
Kao Corporation, established in 1887, and located in Tokyo, Japan, is a manufacturer of consumer products, industrial chemicals, and personal care products. The company offers a range of product including, soaps, detergents, cosmetics, emulsifiers, and personal care products, which caters to industries such as consumer goods, industrial, personal care, healthcare, and food and beverage. The company's products are used for cleaning, hygiene, skincare, and enhancing personal well-being in daily life.
NGK Spark Plugs Co. Ltd, established in 1936 at Nagoya, Japan is a manufacturer of spark plugs for internal combustion and other varieties of engines used in automobiles. The company has a global clientele and manufactures new age spark plugs for automobiles that come with better ignition and reliability. The products included but not limited to are spark igniter plugs, glow plugs, glow controller and resistor cables. These spark plugs are temperature-resistant, safe, environmentally sustainable and reduce fuel consumption with their better ignition properties. They also manufacture sensors and ceramics for multiple applications such as automobiles, semiconductors and medical equipment.
Touch-Down Technology Co. Ltd is a manufacturer of advanced precision ceramics, aluminum oxide and zirconium oxide in Taiwan, established in 1986. The company makes custom designed fine ceramics, aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, machinable glass ceramics, and silicon carbide. The ceramics are mainly used in semiconductors and find applications in machinery industry, electrical and electronics, defense and general livelihood. Some of the product varieties they make are precision micro ceramic parts, porous ceramic chuck table, special shaped ceramic parts as well as integrated high precision ceramic and metal parts. The ceramic parts have better performance, resilience and come with temperature-resistant properties.
Japan Fine Ceramics Co. Ltd, established in 1984 at Sendai City, Japan is a manufacturer of high precision and fine ceramic parts for commercial and industrial uses. The company is a subsidiary of JGC Holdings Corporation and manufactures various advanced ceramic parts for uses in electrical components such as semiconductors, diodes, ICs etc. Their product category has electronic ceramics, engineering ceramics, metal matrix composites and glass ceramics. The products are used in automotive, machinery, electrical, telecommunications and energy applications. These components are heat-resistant, corrosion, wear resistant and have lighter weight with more rigidity. They enhance performance and eliminate damping properties.
AGC Ceramics Co., Ltd. (AGCC) is a manufacturer of fine ceramics and refractories for glass production established in 2002 as a division of Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. Based in Tokyo, Japan, the company primarily produces various refractories resistant to high pressures, temperatures and corrosiveness for lining industrial furnaces in cement, glass, aluminum and incinerator plants. Other products include ceramic molding agents for 3D printers, insulating ceramic walls for furnaces, and conductive ceramics sputtering targets. These supply AGCC clients like the Hitachi Zosen, UACJ and Mitsubishi Materials Corporations.
Praxair S.T. Technology, Inc. is based in Indiana, USA, and is a manufacturer of industrial surface products and coating equipment that was originally founded in 1988 before being acquired by Linde plc in 2018. The company produces a wide range of specialized coatings including fluoropolymers, thermal spray, and laser processing variations. Its other products include dust collection equipment, thermal spray coating systems, and additive manufacturing powders. The company chiefly serves clients in the power generation, textiles, and converting industries.
Morgan Advanced Materials PLC, founded in 1856 and headquartered in Windsor, United Kingdom, is an advanced material and molten metal system technology developer and manufacturer. The company's core areas of business include customized melting solutions for foundries, die-casters, and melting facilities; engineered carbon materials; and the development of technical ceramics. Its products include high-temperature insulating fibers, crucibles, and ceramic laser components. The company offers the custom manufacture of performance components and sub-assemblies for numerous industries, including rail transport, aerospace, and power generation.
Unipretec is a manufacturer of advanced ceramics components for industrial processing operations founded in 2011 and located in Xiamen, China. The company’s products include wear-resistant alumina ceramic pistons for high pressure washer pumps, abrasion-resistant zirconia ceramic plungers for waterjet cutting operations, and thermal-resistant ceramic cylinder liners for reciprocating pumps. It also offers alumina ceramic furnace plates for sintering processes, and ceramic grinding media such as beads and balls. The company’s products are mainly used in the industrial processing sector, such as in foundry and chemical refining operations.
Umicore is a manufacturer of materials technology and recycling products established in 1989 and based in Brussels, Belgium. The company offers rechargeable battery materials such as cobalt for electric vehicle batteries, and a range of automotive catalysts for emissions control applications. It also offers specialized machines for battery recycling as well as precious metal refining. The company is IATF 16949 and ISO 45001-certified, and mainly serves clients in the sustainable energy, electric vehicle, and recycling sectors.
Suntech Advanced Ceramics Co. Ltd. is a manufacturer and supplier of precision ceramic parts that was established in 2006 in Shenzhen, China. The company specializes in ceramic parts for semiconductors, surface-mount technology, and medical equipment. These include porous ceramic vacuum chucks for clamping or handling delicate workpieces, and capillary tubes for wire bonding machines that are designed for long product and shelf life. The company is SGS ROHS, REACH of ECHA and NFS INTERNATIONAL certified, and has obtained a total of 28 patents.
Kyocera Corporation was incorporated in 1946 in Kyoto, Japan as Kyoto Ceramics, but the name was later shortened to Kyocera. Kyocera is a multinational manufacturer and distributor of consumer products as well as industrial components including ceramic and electronic components used in the semiconductor, wireless communications, electronics, and wireless communications markets. Kyocera’s consumer products line includes smartphones and kitchenware such as ceramic knives, cookware, and drinkware. Ceramics are used in semiconductors, solar photovoltaic modules, as well as cutting tools. Kyocera’s electronics cameras, LCDs, medical products, and more.
Accuratus Corporation is a manufacturer and supplier of glass and ceramic materials and components that was established in 1977 in Washington, New Jersey, USA. The company offers its Accuflect-branded light reflecting ceramic material for infrared or laser applications, and its Macor-branded machinable glass material for mechanical or electrical applications. It also offers ceramic tubes and rods fabricated from materials such as silicon carbide, alumina, and zirconia. The company chiefly serves clients in the semiconductor, defense, and biotechnology industries.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | Nishimura Advanced Ceramics Co., Ltd. |
11.7%
|
2 | Touch-Down Technology Co., Ltd |
8.5%
|
3 | SHINAGAWA REFRACTORIES CO., LTD. |
6.4%
|
4 | NGK SPARK PLUG CO.,LTD. |
6.4%
|
5 | Materion Advanced Materials Group |
5.3%
|
6 | PEI-Genesis, Inc. |
4.3%
|
7 | Kyocera International |
4.3%
|
8 | AGC Ceramics Co.,Ltd. |
4.3%
|
9 | OHARA INC |
4.3%
|
10 | JAPAN FINE CERAMICS CO.,LTD. |
4.3%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the fine ceramic page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
Japan | 10 | 45.5% |
United States of America | 6 | 27.3% |
China | 2 | 9.1% |
Taiwan | 2 | 9.1% |
France | 1 | 4.5% |
Korea | 1 | 4.5% |